Just as we’re getting used to a little more light in the morning, along comes daylight-saving time – three weeks earlier than usual.
At 2 a.m. Sunday, by an act of Congress, we spring forward one hour (even though spring doesn’t start until March 21). Next autumn, we’ll fall back a week later, on the first Sunday in November. Until now, daylight saving started the first Sunday in April and ended the last weekend in October.
The change means our mornings will return to darkness temporarily, while our evenings will get an extra hour of light. (Arizona, Hawaii and parts of Indiana do not practice daylight-saving time). For early birds, like farmers and morning joggers who operate on a strict time clock and enjoy the morning quiet before the hustle and bustle of the day kicks in, this change could be an annoying adjustment.
If the idea is to save energy and reduce crime, the debate rages on. Getting up in the dark means turning on lights and heat. It leaves children walking to school or waiting for the bus in the dark longer. Early workers have to drive in the dark.
Of course, there are fewer traffic accidents in the morning than later in the day because there aren’t as many people on the roads. And there is no evidence to show that children are in greater danger going to school in morning darkness.
Still, springing forward three weeks early in today’s computerized age isn’t as simple as turning the hands on a clock or the dial on a radio. Some believe it will take extra energy to save energy. Many computers were programmed before the law was passed to move forward in April. Then there’s the little matter of making software adjustments to heat and lights in office towers, otherwise workers might be arriving at cold, dark offices.
Congress’ primary impetus for the earlier daylight saving was energy savings. And while we’re all for conservation and reducing our dependence on foreign oil, the hoped-for 1 percent reduction in electrical consumption has yet to be proven. Cynics believe the savings is offset by the increased fuel use needed to kickstart the day.
Various studies show that more light at the end of the day saves energy because people don’t turn on their lights or tend to watch as much television when it’s still light out. Supporters say more evening light also increases recreation and economic activity.
Energy savings or not, the four extra weeks of daylight savings is a done deal. And while it will be harder to get up this dark Sunday morning, the extra light at day’s end will be welcome.
Don’t forget to adjust your clocks.
