It’s Time To 'Fall Back,' Change Fire Alarm Batteries, And Be Extra Careful On The Roads

From the City of West Palm Beach:

October 29, 2020

It’s time to “fall back”! Daylight Savings Time will end on Sunday, November 1, 2020 at 2:00 a.m., and we will “fall back” to Standard Time. On Saturday night, remember to set your clocks back one hour.

According to the West Palm Beach Fire Department (WPBFD), this is a good time to install fresh batteries in your smoke alarm and/or carbon monoxide alarm. Make sure these devices are in good working order. Check their expiration dates. Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms help save lives! Also, check to see if your fire extinguishers need recharging.

The City of West Palm Beach Vision Zero safety team reminds pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists to be especially careful on our roads. Vision Zero is the City’s program that aims to improve safety and reduce fatalities on our roads. Follow these important tips:

For Motorists

• Please slow down, obey speed limits, and stay alert.
• Watch for pedestrians and bicyclists, especially when backing up in parking lots or driveways or when approaching crosswalks and intersections.
• Be mindful of children and others who are outdoors in the afternoon and evening, as it gets dark earlier.
• Fully focus on your driving and eliminate distractions. Vehicle death rates are three times higher at night than in the day.
• Dim your dashboard lights to eliminate windshield glare.
• Do not drive if you are drowsy. The time change can throw off your body’s internal clock. Never drive when overtired. The risk of a car crash nearly doubles with just one or two hours less sleep.
• Make sure vehicle headlights and signal lights are functioning properly.

For Pedestrians

• Cross only at intersections or crosswalks. Look left, right and left again before crossing.
• Obey all traffic signals.
• Walk on the sidewalk. Cross at the crosswalk.
• Do not jaywalk between parked cars.
• See and be seen. Carry a flashlight. Wear bright or reflective clothing and/or accessories.
• Watch for turning traffic. Watch for vehicles turning out of driveways.
• Do not play in the street.

This press release was produced by the City of West Palm Beach. The views expressed are the author's own.