State officials recommend safety tasks during daylight savings time

Published 2:33 pm Saturday, March 7, 2015

There is more to “springing forward” than turning the clocks ahead one hour as spring comes within reach.

Here are eight tasks Minnesota Department of Public Safety officials encourage people to add to their “spring forward” to-do list that will keep families safer and possibly save lives.

1. Change the batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms. Those alarms save lives — but only if they work.

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2. Make sure flashlights and weather radios also have fresh batteries.

3. Sign up online for a motorcycle training class. Riding season is just around the corner.

4. Don’t wait until severe weather season is here. Go over the emergency plan with the family.

5. Get enough sleep tonight. Drowsy driving is a factor in one out of five fatal crashes.

6. Prepare the car for spring and summer trips. The Minnesota State Patrol recommends checking tires, fluids, seat belts and car seats.

7. Talk with the teen driver about seat belt use, distracted driving and speed limits. Summer months are often the most dangerous on the roads.

8. Make sure the emergency kit is stocked and ready to go for the summer season.

“You’re already setting your clocks ahead one hour,” Public Safety Commissioner Mona Dohman said in a press release. “Take a few extra minutes to make sure this spring and summer are safe and happy for you and your family.”

More information and details about the items on this list are available on the Department of Public Safety website.