ST. PAUL, Minn. — There is more to “Springing Forward” than turning the clocks ahead one hour before heading to bed Saturday night.
Here are eight tasks Minnesota Department of Public Safety officials encourage people to add to their “Spring Forward” to-do list that will keep families safer and possibly save lives.
‘Spring Forward’ To-Do List
- Change the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms. Those alarms save lives — but only if they work.
- Make sure flashlights and weather radios also have fresh batteries.
- Sign up online today for a motorcycle training class. Riding season is just around the corner.
- Don’t wait until severe weather season is here. Go over your emergency plan with your family.
- Get enough sleep tonight. Drowsy driving is a factor in one out of five fatal crashes.
- Prepare your car for spring and summer trips. The Minnesota State Patrol recommends checking tires, fluids, seat belts and car seats.
- Talk with your teen driver about seat belt use, distracted driving and speed limits. Summer months are often the most dangerous on the roads.
- Make sure your emergency kit is stocked and ready to go for the summer season.
“You’re already setting your clocks ahead one hour,” Public Safety Commissioner Mona Dohman said. “Take a few extra minutes to make sure this spring and summer are safe and happy for you and your family.”
About the Minnesota Department Public Safety
The Department of Public Safety comprises 11 divisions where employees operate programs in the areas of law enforcement, crime victim assistance, traffic safety, alcohol and gambling, emergency communications, fire safety, pipeline safety, driver licensing, vehicle registration and emergency management. DPS is anchored by three core principles: education, enforcement and prevention.
###
