Daylight Savings Safety and Sleep Tips

East Tennessee Children’s Hospital would like to remind the community of a few tips to prepare for Daylight Savings.

Check your smoke detectors

• A working smoke alarm doubles your chances of surviving a fire.
• Make sure there is a working smoke alarm on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and near sleeping areas.
• You can test your smoke alarm by pushing the test button on the cover and holding it down for a minimum of 5 seconds. If the alarm is weak or is not working, replace your batteries.
• Be sure to look for expiration dates on your alarms. Most alarms only last 8-10 years before potentially losing detection sensitivity.

Sleeping patterns adjustment tips

• Sleep Awareness Week begins at the start of Daylight Savings. The time change can be disruptive, especially for infants.
• The Thursday prior, shift all bedtimes 15 minutes earlier each day.
• Dim lights and stop using electronics at least 30 minutes to an hour before bedtime.
• Plan naps, snacks, and meals an hour earlier.

For more safety information and tips, check out our Child Safety page.