Get Ready to Safely ‘Spring Forward’

Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday, March 10, 2013, for most places in the United States, so don’t forget to set your clock forward one hour. We here at Bitner-Henry Insurance want to remind you it’s also a great time to improve your family’s safety.

Be safe in your home

Health and safety agencies often use the approach of Daylight Saving Time to remind people to change the batteries in their smoke alarms. The American Red Cross suggests you test your smoke alarms and talk with your family about your fire escape plan. Whether you live in Pennsylvania & Maryland or elsewhere, practice your plan at least twice a year.

Daylight Saving Time is also a great time to check your emergency preparedness kit to make sure it’s fully stocked with fresh supplies.

Carbon monoxide is a concern too

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 400 people die annually in the US from carbon monoxide poisoning. The CDC recommends changing the batteries in your CO detectors when moving your clocks forward on March 10.

The CDC says the most common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain and confusion.

Visit the CDC website for ways to prevent carbon monoxide exposure.

We here at Bitner Henry hope these tips help and that you’ll consider sharing them with the people you care about so they can live safer lives, too.