Detroit, MI – Clocks across Michigan 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 departments and emergency management officials across the state, the twice-yearly time 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 southeast Michigan, Detroit fire officials emphasize the importance of working smoke detectors in both single-family homes and apartment buildings. Residents are encouraged to test alarms in bedrooms, hallways, and basements while replacing batteries if alarms fail to sound.
Across western Michigan, Grand Rapids emergency management officials say the time change is also a good opportunity to check emergency preparedness supplies. Residents should confirm flashlights work, replace aging batteries in weather radios, and ensure fire extinguishers are accessible and properly charged.
Safety experts also recommend reviewing family evacuation plans and making sure exits and stairways remain clear. With longer daylight hours arriving after the time change, many households begin spring maintenance projects, making Sunday a convenient checkpoint for home 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 Michigan residents to take a few minutes Sunday morning to test alarms and refresh safety equipment throughout the home.
