Raleigh, NC – Clocks across North Carolina 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 perform critical safety checks around their homes.
According to the National Fire Protection Association and emergency management agencies across the state, the twice-yearly clock change is widely used as a 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 central North Carolina, Raleigh fire officials encourage residents to test alarms throughout the home, particularly in bedrooms, hallways, and near stairwells. Working smoke detectors provide early warnings that can give families valuable time to evacuate during a fire.
Across the state in Charlotte, emergency management officials say the time change is also a good opportunity to check emergency kits and basic home safety supplies. Residents should make sure flashlights function properly, replace aging batteries, and confirm that fire extinguishers are accessible and fully charged.
Officials also suggest reviewing family evacuation plans and clearing exits, hallways, and staircases to ensure safe escape routes in case of an emergency.
Daylight saving time will remain in effect through the warmer months before ending Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026, when clocks fall back one hour. Authorities across North Carolina urge residents to take a few minutes Sunday morning to test alarms and refresh household safety equipment
