The beginning of March means getting closer to the first day of Spring. One of the things that symbolize this is "Springing Ahead" by turning the clocks one hour ahead for Daylight Saving Time.
Did you know that turning clocks head one hour is actually dangerous? Here are some of the less known consequences of sleep deprivation due to Daylight Saving Time:
- Heart Attacks: The number of acute myocardial infarctions jumps 24 percent on the Monday after the time change, according to as study from the University of Colorado
- Workplace Injuries: An examination of mining injuries from 1983 to 2006 revealed that the Monday after the time change, workers sustained more injuries and more severe injuries versus the rest of the year
- Increased Car Accidents: Sleep deprivation can delay reaction time. Also sleep deprivation sometimes prevents you from making good decisions
Daylight Saving Time doesn't have to be so dangerous. Here are some tips to help you "Spring Forward" into Daylight Saving Time:
- Gradual Transition Into The Time Change: Especially for those taking care of children, start now by putting your children to bed in 15 minutes early, and working towards one hour.
- Avoid Bright Lights Before Bed: This includes TV, smartphones, and computers
- Get Some Exercise During The Day: Aim for at least 30 minutes, most days of the week
- Get Up If You Can't Sleep: If you've been awake for more than 20 minutes, get up, go to another room, and do something relaxing to help get you drowsy, like read a book
Thanks so much to WKBN-TV for posting the HD videos below. Also check out the article on their site, "Not Ready For Daylight Saving Time? Tips On How To Adjust To The Time Change"