Daylight Savings Time – Do It Right!
Spring is the perfect time to move ahead in more than one way… not only is it time to set your clocks ahead one hour, it’s also a great opportunity to take care of some household safety checks and balances that will serve your family well over the next few months.
Change the Clocks, Change the Batteries
Your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors do a great job of keeping your family safe – but only if the batteries are fresh and ready to go. Since most home safety experts suggest changing the batteries in these essential devices every six months, the twice-yearly time change is an easy reminder. Remember, most of these batteries still have life left in them! Reuse them in remotes, children’s toys, toothbrushes or other small household appliances.
You Light Up My Life
While you have the stepladder out for your battery changes, check your light bulbs and fixtures. Replace any bulbs that may be out or those that haven’t been replaced in a long while. If you haven’t switched to more energy-efficient LED or compact fluorescent bulbs, now is a great time to consider it. Brighter, more efficient spaces also pair well with our Design Studio selections.
First Aid Update
Longer days mean more time spent outside — and more cuts, scrapes, and bruises to show for it. Make sure your first aid kit is fully stocked with essentials for quick fixes and cleanups. Also check your medicine cabinets for expired prescription and over-the-counter medications. Do not throw them in the trash or flush them. Instead, visit the FDA's website for safe disposal locations near you.
Review Your Emergency Lists
Take a few minutes to update your emergency information page near your main phone. Ensure phone numbers, addresses, and contacts are correct. It’s also a great time to review emergency plans as a family — including fire escape routes, severe weather procedures, and meeting points.
Be a Dust Buster
Spring is an ideal time to tackle dusty tasks that help your home run more efficiently. Check your dryer vent pipes and ducts for trapped lint, which can be a fire hazard. Your vacuum hose works well for this and can also clean refrigerator coils. Clean or replace filters in heating/cooling units, stove ventilation hoods, water filtration systems, and your vacuum itself. Clean filters mean cleaner air and better system performance.
Lovin’ the Oven
A dirty oven is another potential fire threat. If you don’t have a self-cleaning oven, open your windows, put on gloves, and give it a deep clean.
Get Ready for Bed
Springtime sleep disruption is real — so help your family adjust by refreshing your sleeping spaces. Wash pillows thoroughly, replace bedding, and flip or rotate your mattress to prolong its life and comfort. For pillowtop or memory foam mattresses, rotate instead of flipping. To promote restful sleep, keep bedrooms dark, cool, and quiet. Avoid screens before bed and limit food, alcohol, and caffeine in the evening.
Once you're set to go, you can “spring ahead” into longer days, warmer weather, and outdoor fun — knowing you and your family are refreshed, safe, and ready for the new season!
