Daylight savings time is ending this weekend. When turning your clocks back one hour, the following reminders may help you as we prepare for winter:

  • Observing and maintaining your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors is important in avoiding a fire or carbon monoxide dangers in your home. Try correlating replacing batteries in these devices with daylight savings time. You should also test the units once a month.
  • Create or review the emergency plan for your home. Set-up a meeting with family members to discuss the plan for an emergency.
  • Replace any necessary first aid kit supplies that have been used to ensure that in an emergency you have a complete first aid kit.
  • Create an emergency kit that may consist of industrial flashlights and batteries, radio or crank radio (to listen to news bulletins), candles and matches, extra car keys, cash, blankets or sleeping bags, food, and bottled water.
  • In addition to your first aid and emergency kit, you should also create a Car Winter Survival kit. Keep a road map, flashlight, food, water, and blanket in the trunk of your vehicle.

Being prepared is one of the best defenses you can have against a potential threat or natural disaster. Gather your family members this weekend or over the holiday season and make a plan for what you would do in case of an emergency.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.