Daylight saving time begins at 2 a.m. local time Sunday, March 10.
In the grand tradition of “springing forward,” Mississippians and most of the nation will be asked to turn their clocks ahead one hour.
Many people find it best to adjust the clocks before going to bed Saturday night. If not, some churchgoers may find themselves an hour late for Sunday morning services.
The Mississippi State Fire Marshal’s Office also calls this a good time to test all smoke alarms.
“So far, there have been 29 fire deaths in 2024,” said State Fire Marshal and Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney. “In 17 of those fires, there were no working smoke alarms in the home. If you need a smoke alarm but can’t afford to buy one, please call your local fire department. They may be able to install alarms for free.”
“Working smoke alarms cut the risk of dying in a home fire in half as you only have about two minutes to get out,” said Lola Gillard Mayes, preparedness programs manager, Alabama and Mississippi region. “Every second counts when there’s a home fire and the sooner an alarm alerts you to a fire, the sooner you can get to a safer place. When you turn your clocks forward this weekend, test your smoke alarms too to help prevent a tragedy in your home.”
The state Fire Marshal’s Office recommends the following safety tips:
• Test smoke alarms at least once a month using the test button.
• Make sure everyone in the home understands the sound of the smoke alarm and knows how to respond.
• Replace all smoke alarms when they are 10 years old.
• Replace the smoke alarm immediately if it doesn’t respond properly when tested.
• Smoke alarms should be placed in every sleeping area and common hallways and on every level of the home. Large homes may need extra smoke alarms. A smoke alarm should be on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep smoke alarms away from the kitchen to reduce false alarms. They should be at least 10 feet from the stove.
• Create an escape plan and make sure all family members know where to meet once out of the home.
