Clocks Go Back UK: October 2024

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Post on Oct 26, 2024

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Clocks Go Back UK: October 2024 - What You Need to Know

It's that time of year again! The clocks go back in the UK on Sunday, October 27th, 2024, at 2:00 AM. This means we "gain" an hour of sleep, but it also means we'll be adjusting to darker evenings earlier.

Here's a breakdown of everything you need to know about the UK's switch back to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT):

Why do we change the clocks?

The UK has been observing daylight saving time (DST) since 1916, a practice adopted to make better use of daylight hours during the summer months. This involves moving the clocks forward by an hour in the spring and back by an hour in the fall.

The main reason for DST is to:

• Save energy: By extending daylight hours in the evening, people need less artificial light, reducing energy consumption.
• Reduce traffic accidents: More daylight in the evening generally means fewer accidents.
• Promote outdoor activities: People tend to engage in more outdoor activities when there are longer daylight hours.

What to expect when the clocks go back:

• An extra hour of sleep: When the clocks go back, we get to enjoy an extra hour of sleep on Sunday morning.
• Earlier sunsets: The most noticeable change is that the sun will set earlier each day, with darkness setting in earlier in the afternoon.
• Adjusting your body clock: It might take a few days to adjust to the change in time, so be prepared for some fatigue and potential sleep disruptions.

Practical tips for adjusting to the clock change:

• Prepare your children: If you have children, it’s a good idea to prepare them for the change in advance. Explain that they will be going to bed and waking up an hour earlier.
• Adjust your sleep schedule gradually: In the days leading up to the clock change, consider going to bed 15 minutes earlier each night. This will help you adjust more easily to the new time.
• Avoid caffeine and alcohol in the evening: These substances can disrupt your sleep patterns.
• Get some sunshine: Exposing yourself to natural sunlight during the day can help to regulate your sleep-wake cycle.
• Be patient: It may take a few days for your body to fully adjust to the time change.

Don't forget to adjust your clocks! Make sure all your clocks and devices are set back an hour before the time change. This includes your alarm clocks, watches, ovens, and even your car clock.

Enjoy the extra hour of sleep and be prepared for the shorter days ahead!