WILLIAMSBURG — On Sunday, Nov. 2, at 2 a.m., the clocks will turn back an hour as Daylight Saving Time comes to a close.
When setting clocks back one hour, it is also recommended to check batteries in smoke alarms.
AAA annually reminds drivers to use caution when clocks change, particularly during the evening commute, when less light can lead to drowsy driving and other driving risks.
According to AAA Foundation research:
- Drivers predominantly perceived drowsy driving to be very or extremely dangerous (96%); however, 20% of drivers reported having engaged in the behavior in the past 30 days.
- Almost 3 in 10 drivers believed the police would apprehend them for drowsy driving.
AAA Tidewater recommends that drivers:
- Should not rely on their bodies to provide warning signs for drowsiness and should instead prioritize getting at least seven hours of sleep before hitting the road.
- Travel at times of the day when they are normally awake.
- Avoid heavy foods.
- Avoid medications that cause drowsiness or other impairment.
AAA Tidewater recommends pedestrians and bicyclists:
- Make your self as visible as possible — wear bright colors, reflective clothing and carry a light.
- Cross at intersections or corners, not in the middle of the street or between parked cars.
- If there is no sidewalk available, walk against traffic.
- Avoid listening to music or being distracted near roadways.
According to a new analysis by Stanford Medicine, changing clocks twice a year disrupts circadian rhythms, leading to higher rates of stroke and obesity.
To combat seasonal depression, MayoClinic offers the following tips:
- Exercise regularly: Exercise and other types of physical activity help relieve stress and anxiety, both of which can increase symptoms. Being more fit can make you feel better about yourself, too, which can lift your mood.
- Get outside: Take a long walk, eat lunch at a nearby park, or simply sit on a bench and soak up the sun. Even on cold or cloudy days, outdoor light can help — especially if you spend some time outside within two hours of getting up in the morning.
- Make your environment sunnier and brighter: Open blinds, trim tree branches that block sunlight or add skylights to your home. Sit closer to bright windows while at home or in the office.
- Normalize sleep patterns: Schedule reliable times to wake up and go to bed each day. Especially for fall-winter-onset, reduce or eliminate napping and oversleeping.