INDIANAPOLIS — Not only is it important to let your body adjust to the time change this November, it is also a great time to check and prepare all your home safety precautions.
The change in time that accompanies Daylight Saving Time can take a toll on some individuals. This year, the time change happens at 2 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 1. One might experience tiredness, sluggishness or an overall lack of energy after the time change.
While you take the time to set all your clocks back an hour, doctors also recommend checking safety equipment around the house to make sure everything is up to code and working properly. For instance, be sure to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. If your smoke alarm is more than 10 years old, it should be replaced. You should also replace your carbon monoxide alarm if you have had it longer than five years.
Doctors also recommend taking this opportunity to make a home disaster kit, including extra water, food, blankets and flashlights. After making a kit, you can use the change in time as a reminder to make sure the batteries and bulbs for the flashlights still work.
In addition, doctors advise going through your medications and throwing away any that have expired, as they can be harmful to your health.
Finally, check around your house and outdoor storage areas for any hazardous materials. Properly discard anything that is out of date, damaged or that you no longer use. It is also important to keep those materials out of reach from children and pets.