BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Even if giving up an hour of sleep this weekend isn't the most restful thing we'll do, we will get it back after those "lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer."
And we'll enjoy the sunshine until we get that hour of sleep back in the fall.
But first, we deal with Daylight Saving time starting at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 12. We turn clocks ahead one hour.
- Daylight saving time begins at 2 a.m. March 12
- Turn clocks ahead one hour
- Be intentional in fending off drowsiness, especially while driving
And the first few days of a time change can be a little rough.
Just ask any parent of a small child.
And even for adults, though, it can take a little adjustment.
Monday morning's drive to work will be darker than it was Friday, for example.
Advice from AAA East Central in Allentown includes a list of precautions drivers should consider.
“Many will find on Monday that their normal morning commutes will be darker than they’re used to, which can be especially dangerous for pedestrians and children waiting at bus stops,” Theresa Podguski, director of legislative affairs for AAA East Central, said in a news release.
"Motorists should prepare themselves to adjust to losing an hour of sleep and then driving in darker conditions.”Theresa Podguski, director of legislative affairs for AAA East Central
“Moreover, less sleep can lead to an increase in the number of drowsy drivers," Podguski said. "So motorists should prepare themselves to adjust to losing an hour of sleep and then driving in darker conditions.”
Symptoms of drowsy driving include trouble keeping your eyes open, drifting from your lane and not remembering the last few miles driven, she said.
She suggested avoiding heavy foods or medications that could cause drowsiness before driving. And if it's a long drive, schedule a break every two hours.
If you're on foot in the early hours, wear bright colors or reflective clothing, carry a flashlight and make eye contact with drivers when crossing the street.
