Burlington, VT – Clocks across Vermont and New Hampshire will jump ahead one hour at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 8, marking the start of daylight saving time and prompting emergency officials to urge homeowners to perform critical safety checks inside their homes.
According to fire safety agencies and emergency management officials across both states, the twice-yearly clock change provides an easy 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 Vermont, Burlington fire officials encourage residents to test smoke alarms throughout the home, especially in bedrooms, hallways, and basements. Working alarms can provide early warnings that give families valuable time to escape during a fire.
Across the Connecticut River in New Hampshire, Manchester emergency management officials also recommend checking basic emergency supplies while completing daylight saving time tasks. Residents should ensure flashlights work properly, replace old batteries in weather radios, and confirm that fire extinguishers are fully charged and accessible.
Officials also encourage families to review evacuation plans, making sure exits, stairways, and hallways remain clear in case of an emergency. With longer daylight hours beginning after the time change, many homeowners begin spring maintenance projects, making Sunday an ideal time to complete 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. Authorities urge residents across Vermont and New Hampshire to take a few minutes Sunday morning to test alarms and refresh household safety equipment.
