Baltimore, MD – Clocks across Maryland and Delaware 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 critical safety checks around their homes.
According to fire safety agencies and emergency management officials across both states, the twice-yearly clock change provides an easy reminder for residents to test smoke alarms, replace batteries in carbon monoxide detectors, and inspect fire extinguishers. When clocks move forward early Sunday morning, sunrise and sunset will both occur later in the day compared to Saturday.
In Maryland, officials in Baltimore say functioning smoke detectors remain one of the most important tools for preventing fatal house fires. Residents are encouraged to test alarms in bedrooms, hallways, and basements while replacing batteries if needed.
Across the state line in Delaware, Wilmington fire officials also urge homeowners to check that fire extinguishers are accessible and fully charged. Emergency planners recommend using the time change as a seasonal checkpoint to inspect emergency kits, confirm flashlights work, and replace aging batteries in backup lighting.
Officials say families should also review evacuation plans, making sure exits and stairways are clear and that every member of the household knows where to go during an emergency. With longer daylight hours arriving after the time change, many households begin spring maintenance projects, making Sunday an ideal time to handle these important safety tasks.
Daylight saving time will continue through the warmer months before ending Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026, when clocks fall back one hour. Emergency officials across Maryland and Delaware urge residents to take a few minutes Sunday morning to test alarms and refresh safety equipment throughout the home.
