Indianapolis, IN – Clocks across Indiana 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 several important safety checks throughout the home.
According to fire safety agencies and emergency management officials across the state, the twice-yearly time change serves as a reliable 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 Indiana, Indianapolis fire officials emphasize the importance of working smoke detectors in both houses and apartment buildings. Residents should test alarms in bedrooms, hallways, and basements and replace batteries if alarms fail to sound during testing.
Across northeastern Indiana, Fort Wayne emergency management officials say the clock change is also a good time to review basic emergency preparedness. Residents are encouraged to check flashlights, replace aging batteries in weather radios, and ensure fire extinguishers are accessible and fully 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 projects, making Sunday an ideal checkpoint for household safety inspections.
Daylight saving time will continue through the warmer months before ending Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026, when clocks fall back one hour. Officials urge Indiana residents to take a few minutes Sunday morning to test alarms and refresh home safety equipment.
