Daylight Saving Time ends Sunday, disrupting schedules for Ottawa residents and new parents. Experts are pushing to end the “outdated practice,” citing health issues and the science supporting year-round standard time.
It’s that time of year again — a clear sign winter’s almost here. Daylight saving time officially wraps up early Sunday morning, so remember to set your clocks back one hour at 2 a.m. The upside? You get an extra hour of sleep.
Still, experts say the time change can mess with your body and mind more than you might expect.
How the Time Change Can Affect You
Sleep specialist Asa Yadali from the University Health Network says that while the spring forward tends to be harder, the fall back shift can still throw off your internal clock — especially if you’re dealing with ongoing health issues.
“Our bodies are tuned to wake up with daylight,” Yadali explains. “When we suddenly move the clock, that natural rhythm doesn’t line up with the sun anymore — and that mismatch can cause problems.”
To help your body reset, she suggests spending time outdoors. “Get as much natural light as you can. Even a short walk outside can help your system adjust.”
Dr. My Randra Ravichandran from Scarborough Health Network notes that the seasonal change can also impact mental health. “If you’re struggling emotionally, treat it just like a physical issue — reach out for help and look after yourself,” he advises.
And for anyone who’s been staying up late to catch games — like the Toronto Blue Jays’ playoff run — Ravichandran says this weekend’s extra hour couldn’t come at a better time. “If you can catch up on sleep, do it,” he says.
Safety and Home Maintenance Reminders
Besides your health, local officials say the end of daylight saving time is the perfect reminder to check a few safety essentials.
Police Constable Michelle Stafford says darker evenings and rainy fall weather often mean more car accidents. “We tend to see an uptick in collisions around this time,” she explains. “Keep a safe distance, brake gently, and drive defensively — especially in foggy or wet conditions.”
She also reminds drivers to make sure their cars are in good working order. “Check all your lights and signals — they’re crucial this time of year,” she adds.
Toronto Fire Captain Roman Voyarski says this is also a good moment to check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. “Change the batteries and test them monthly,” he says. “Remember, these alarms only last about 10 years, so replace them when needed.”
He stresses how vital they are in an emergency: “They detect danger before you can see or smell it. Every second counts when that alarm goes off.”
Why the U.S. Still Changes Its Clocks
South of the border, Americans will also be turning their clocks back on Sunday — gaining that extra hour of sleep at 2 a.m. But political disagreements in Washington mean the twice-a-year switch isn’t going away anytime soon.
Earlier this week, Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) blocked Rick Scott’s (R-Fla.) Sunshine Protection Act, which would have made daylight saving time permanent. Scott argued that Americans are “sick and tired” of switching clocks, but Cotton insisted the country should stick with the “uneasy compromise.”
Former President Donald Trump has also weighed in, calling the clock change “a big inconvenience” and urging lawmakers to “push for more daylight at the end of the day.”
Congress almost passed the same bill back in 2022, but it ultimately fell through — meaning the clock ritual continues.
Quick Facts
- Time change: Sunday at 2 a.m. — clocks go back one hour.
- Devices: Phones and computers adjust automatically; ovens, microwaves, and car clocks may not.
- Effect: Expect earlier sunrises and sunsets — brighter mornings, darker evenings.
- Exceptions: Hawaii, most of Arizona, and U.S. territories like Puerto Rico and Guam stay on standard time year-round.
The Takeaway
This weekend’s “fall back” gives you a bonus hour of rest and a little extra morning light. But don’t underestimate the impact — the shift can still affect your energy, mood, and focus. Use the time change as a reset: get outside, rest up, and make sure your home and car are ready for the shorter, darker days ahead.