SAN FRANCISCO, March 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Pacific Gas and Electric Company urges safety as the days become longer beginning this Sunday, April 2. Remember to adjust clocks forward one hour before going to bed Saturday, April 1 as Daylight Saving begins and Standard Time ends.
Benjamin Franklin originally introduced the concept of Daylight Saving in 1784. However, it wasn't until 1916 that the British Parliament formally implemented what became known as "summertime."
Daylight Saving began in the United States during World War I in order to save energy for war production by taking advantage of the later hours of daylight between April and October. During World War II, the federal government again required the states to observe the time change. In 1966, Congress passed the Uniform Time Act which standardized the length of Daylight Saving Time.
Today, most everyone is familiar with the terms "spring forward," referring to the first Sunday in April when we move our clocks forward and "fall back," referring to the last Sunday in October when we reset our clock back. Arizona, Hawaii, parts of Indiana, the U.S. Virgin Islands and American Samoa do not observe Daylight Savings Time.
As we make the transition to Daylight Saving, Pacific Gas and Electric Company offers these important safety and energy efficiency tips:
Safety:
* Local fire agencies recommend changing batteries in smoke detectors
when clock times are changed. In addition, check your emergency
supply kit to make sure it is fully stocked and ready.
* Since the days are longer, drivers should be aware of children
walking home or playing in the streets. Parents should suggest light
colored clothing, including reflective material, for children to
increase visibility.
* Consider installing motion sensors on porch lights in front of homes
if installed with incandescent lamps. This also saves energy because
lights will automatically turn on and off. (Most compact
fluorescent lamps (CFLs) are not compatible with motion sensors.
Using standard CFLs with motion sensors will cause early failure.)
* Keep all materials safely away from electric heaters, and hot water
heaters.
Energy Efficiency:
* Clean or change your central heating and air conditioning filter
monthly. You should have your cooling system inspected or serviced
once a year for safety, longer life and better performance. To
maximize the performance of your furnace and air conditioner, have
your ducting tested, and repaired if necessary.
* Install CFLs in place of incandescent bulbs, and use timers on lamps
-- two additional energy saving ideas.
* Seal air leaks around pipes, flues and vents that pass through
exterior walls, ceilings or floors.
* PG&E is offering a number of energy efficiency rebates for your
home. Log on to http://www.pge.com/res/rebates to obtain rebate and other
information on energy efficiency.
For more energy savings tips call the Smarter Energy Line at 1-800-933-9555 or visit our website at http://www.pge.com/foryourhome. For safety information visit our website at http://www.pge.com/safety.
