Reminder: Set Those Clocks Forward Tonight, We're Losing An Hour

If you want to be on time Sunday morning, set your clock ahead an hour before going to bed tonight.

Daylight saving time starts at 2 a.m. Sunday.

The annual change means that Phoenix and most of Arizona will effectively shift over to California time, and means the local time difference between California and Hawaii increases from two hours to three. Most of Arizona and Hawaii do not observe daylight saving time.

It's A Good Time to Check Smoke Alarms

As usual, local fire agencies urged people to use the time change as a reminder to check smoke alarms and replace the batteries if necessary. It is also a good time to reset timers on outdoor lights and lawn sprinkler systems.

Firefighters offered the following tips on handling and maintaining smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors:

• Install smoke detectors on all floors of your home or apartment.
• If the devices are hardwired into your electrical system, be sure to have a backup battery-operated smoke detector in case of a power outage.
• Mount alarms high on walls, at least four to 12 inches from the ceiling.
• Never paint over a smoke detector.
• Use a vacuum cleaner to remove lint or dust.
• Test the smoke detectors regularly. If the smoke detector "chirps'' it is an indication of a low battery, which should be changed.
• The Auto Club of Southern California warned drivers to be on the lookout for school children and other pedestrians, since it will be dark for an hour longer in the mornings.

- City News Service