Richmond, VA – Clocks across Virginia 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 fire departments and emergency management officials across the state, the 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 in the day compared to Saturday.
In central Virginia, Richmond fire officials stress that working smoke detectors remain the most effective early warning system during a home fire. Residents are encouraged to test alarms in bedrooms, hallways, and basements while ensuring batteries are fresh and properly installed.
Along the coast, Virginia Beach emergency management officials also recommend checking household emergency supplies while completing daylight saving time tasks. Residents should confirm flashlights work, replace old batteries, and ensure fire extinguishers are accessible and fully charged.
Safety experts also encourage families to review emergency escape plans, making sure exits and stairways are clear and that everyone in the household understands where to go during an emergency.
Daylight saving time will continue through the warmer months before ending Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026, when clocks fall back one hour. Officials urge Virginia residents to take a few minutes Sunday morning to test alarms and refresh safety equipment throughout the home.
