Daylight Savings Time a Reminder to Prepare

Daylight Savings Time in the United States starts on the second Sunday in March of each year and the Federal Emergency Management Agency encourages all Americans to use the change to daylight savings time as a reminder to implement emergency preparedness measures that will keep you and your family safe. For years, fire departments and safety officials have worked to remind citizens as they move their clocks ahead, to also change those smoke alarm batteries throughout their homes. According to FEMA Regional Administrator Susan Reinertson, adjusting clocks in cars, at home and in the office is a great opportunity to review disaster response plans and restock disaster kits. "Spring heralds increased risks for flash flooding, thunderstorms and wildfires throughout the Pacific Northwest, and daylight savings time is a great time to inventory and restock emergency kits and rehearse disaster plans," said Reinertson. "No matter how busy or hectic our daily routine, we all need to take the time to think about what to do in the event of severe weather-or any other major disaster. Our 'Are You Ready? In-depth guide to Citizens' is a great resource for those interested in building or enhancing their readiness." The Are You Ready citizens' guide is available at www.fema.gov and www.ready.gov and is also available from FEMA's publications warehouse by calling (800) 480-2520.