As the clocks fall back on Sunday, November 2, 2025 at 2:00 a.m., we gain an extra hour of sleep — but also lose an hour of daylight in the evenings. That shift means darker commutes, reduced visibility, and a good reminder to give your home, vehicle, and routines a seasonal safety check.
Here are eight smart habits to make the transition smoother, safer, and more meaningful this fall.
Shorter days mean you’ll be spending more time driving in the dark. Take a few minutes to clean your headlights, taillights, and turn signals, and replace any burnt-out bulbs.
Even if it’s still bright outside, turn your headlights on one hour earlier than you think you need to — it helps others see you sooner.
Pro Tip: Keep your lights set to automatic if your vehicle has that feature, and always ensure your dashboard dimmer is adjusted so you’re not straining your eyes.
Cooler temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop — and low pressure can impact your fuel economy, traction, and braking distance.
Use this time change as your reminder to check tire tread depth and air pressure.
If your vehicle still has summer tires, consider switching to winter tires soon for better handling and control in colder conditions.
Related reading:
➡️ Tire Pressure Explained: How to Check, Why It Matters, and Maintenance Tips
➡️ Do I Need New Tires? Tire Tread Depth Explained (and How to Check It)
➡️ Winter Tires vs. Summer Tires vs. All-Season Tires: Which Do I Need?
With unpredictable fall weather ahead, make sure your emergency kit is stocked and ready. Essentials include:
For an added layer of protection, make sure your CAA Membership is up to date — because even the best drivers need backup sometimes.
The time change is the perfect reminder to check your smoke and CO alarms. Replace batteries if needed and review expiration dates.
If you have smart detectors, test the connectivity and alerts through your phone app. These small checks save lives.
With sunset arriving earlier, good exterior lighting becomes essential.
Replace dim or burnt-out porch bulbs, set timers on outdoor lights, and consider motion-sensing lights near driveways or walkways.
Inside, warm lighting can help regulate your sleep cycle and reduce seasonal fatigue.
The time change can disrupt your internal clock. That groggy feeling you get on Monday morning? It’s your body’s natural response to a new rhythm.
To stay safe:
Whether at home or on the road, a quick review of your family’s emergency plan goes a long way.
Confirm contact numbers, meeting points, and check your household’s emergency supplies — from flashlights to backup batteries and medications.
Instead of spending your bonus hour scrolling or sleeping in, consider putting it toward something that makes Niagara stronger:
Daylight Saving Time’s end is more than a time change — it’s a seasonal checkpoint to reset habits that protect your family, your vehicle, and your community. Take a few minutes to fall back safely, and you’ll be ready for the darker days ahead with confidence.
Stay prepared this season — visit blog.caaniagara.ca for more safety, community, and travel tips from your local experts at CAA Niagara.
Need help on the road? Our Roadside Assistance team is always just a call away.