Spring forward with a safety check

Daylight saving time starts three weeks early this year (the official start time is Sunday, March 11th at 2 a.m.). But that doesn't mean you should be caught by surprise. When you're resetting your watches and clocks (don't forget the one in your car), use this annual event as a reminder to perform the tasks outlined below. They'll enhance safety for you and your family year-round.

Replace batteries in all smoke and carbon-monoxide alarms. Always use fresh batteries, not those you "borrow" from other equipment. And follow manufacturer's instructions to ensure that these essential devices are working properly. Also, replace any smoke alarm that's 10 or more years old and any CO alarm 5 or more years old with a new model. You'll find the manufacture date on the alarm. See our report on carbon-monoxide alarms and our exclusive interactive on smoke alarms for more information. (The CO report and Ratings are available to subscribers).

Reset clocks on appliances and electronics. Some newer appliances and electronics are equipped with a microchip that automatically resets clock displays at the beginning and end of DST; many of those may still need to be reset manually this year, due to the change in schedule (and you may need to reset them again in three weeks, when they "think" they're supposed to reset themselves). To facilitate the process, make a list of all devices that you need to reset manually: clocks, TVs, DVDs players/VCRs, fax machines, cameras, and thermostats. (It's especially important to reprogram your thermostat so that the heat in your home switches on and off at the right time.)

Reset everything on the list in one session so that no appliance or electronic is forgotten.

Drive safely. Remember, an extra hour of light in the evening means dawn will break an hour later as well. So, if you're an early riser, be extra alert for children and animals.

Inspect vehicle lights. Inspect the entire lighting system in your car to ensure that all lights are working properly. Clean headlights and make sure they are correctly aligned according to the owner's manual.

Update your family disaster plan. To respond properly to a natural disaster or other cataclysmic event, you need to have a plan in place and the necessary supplies on hand, and be prepared to act. See our free emergency guide to preparing for any storm or disaster.

Check storage areas for hazardous materials. Properly dispose of any materials that are outdated, no longer used, or in poor condition. Make sure those you keep are out of the reach of kids or pets.

You can find some more tips on preparing for daylight saving time here.