Newark, NJ – Clocks across New Jersey 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 important safety checks around their homes.
According to fire safety agencies and emergency management officials across the state, the twice-yearly clock 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 in the day compared to Saturday.
In northern New Jersey, Newark fire officials emphasize the importance of working smoke detectors in both single-family homes and multi-unit buildings. Residents are encouraged to test alarms in bedrooms, hallways, and basements while replacing batteries if needed.
Across Hudson County, Jersey City emergency management officials say the time change is also a good opportunity to check household emergency supplies. Residents should ensure flashlights are operational, replace aging batteries, and confirm that fire extinguishers are accessible and fully charged.
Safety experts also recommend reviewing family evacuation plans and making sure exits, stairways, and hallways are clear of obstructions. With longer daylight hours beginning after the time shift, many households start spring maintenance projects, making Sunday an ideal time to address home safety equipment.
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 New Jersey residents to take a few minutes Sunday morning to test alarms and refresh household safety devices.
