Spring Forward: Daylight Saving Time Begins This Weekend

NEW CITY, NY, - Daylight Saving Time begins on Sunday, March 8, 2026. The Rockland County Department of Health reminds residents to set clocks ahead one hour and get ready to enjoy longer daylight, with more time for outdoor activities like walking and bicycling.

As you adjust clocks, keep these important health and safety tips in mind:

• Ease into the time change: Start going to bed 10-15 minutes earlier each night to prepare for the switch. Sudden sleep loss can impact thinking, decision-making, and productivity. Research shows the Daylight Savings transition may temporarily increase risk for heart attack, stroke, traffic accidents, and mood disturbances.
• Refresh emergency supply kits: If you don’t have an emergency supply kit, now is the time to put one together. Have a several-day supply of food and water stored in your home, with at least one gallon of water per person per day. Don’t forget your pets – they need their own food and water. Emergency supply kits should also contain a flashlight, a hand-operated can opener, a radio, batteries, and copies of important documents. For more information on being prepared for emergencies, visit the Rockland County Department of Health’s Emergency Preparedness webpage.
• Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms, and change batteries if needed. The Rockland County Department of Health’s Healthy Neighborhoods Program can assist low-to-moderate income residents and seniors, at no cost, with battery changes and alarm replacements, while supplies last. For more information, call (845) 364-2545 or email Healthyneighborhoods@co.rockland.ny.us.

###

Follow us on X: @rockhealth
Follow us on Instagram: Instagram.com/rocklandhealth
Like us on Facebook: Facebook.com/rockhealth
Visit our website: RocklandCountyNY.gov