Atlanta, GA – Clocks across Georgia will jump ahead one hour at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 8, marking the start of daylight saving time and prompting emergency officials to remind homeowners to complete important safety checks throughout their homes.
According to fire safety agencies and emergency management officials across the state, the twice-yearly time change serves as a convenient reminder for residents to test smoke alarms, replace batteries in carbon monoxide detectors, and inspect fire extinguishers. When clocks spring forward early Sunday morning, sunrise and sunset will both occur later compared to Saturday.
In metro Atlanta, fire officials emphasize that working smoke detectors remain one of the most effective tools for preventing fatal house fires. Residents should test alarms in bedrooms, hallways, and basements while replacing batteries if alarms fail to sound.
Along the Georgia coast, Savannah emergency management officials also encourage residents to check household emergency supplies while adjusting clocks. Homeowners should confirm flashlights are working, replace aging batteries in weather radios, and ensure fire extinguishers are accessible and properly charged.
Safety officials also recommend reviewing family evacuation plans and making sure exits and stairways remain clear of clutter. With longer daylight hours arriving after the time change, many homeowners begin spring maintenance and cleaning projects, making Sunday an ideal checkpoint for safety inspections.
Daylight saving time will remain in effect through the warmer months before ending Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026, when clocks fall back one hour. Officials urge Georgia residents to take a few minutes Sunday morning to test alarms and refresh home safety equipment.
