New Bedford Police Chief Urges Folks to Be ‘Vigilant’

The times, they are a changin' – quite literally.

In case no one told you, we exited daylight savings time over the weekend. That explains why the sun is rising when you are and it's dark out before you leave the office for the day. And you thought it was climate change.

Daylight savings time was introduced in the United States in 1918 through the Standard Time Act. It was designed to provide more daylight hours to conserve energy during World War l. It lasted for several months but was re-introduced during World War ll.

Contrary to what some believe the advent of daylight savings time had nothing to do with farming or farmers.

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Daylight savings time became permanent in 1974 during the first "energy crisis" but concerns about kids waiting for school buses in the dark winter months and a general dislike of the law saw it repealed a year later.

New Bedford Police Chief Paul Oliveira urges folks to be aware and proactive as the days get shorter and darkness arrives earlier. Oliveira reminds everyone "to be vigilant of their surroundings, especially in poorly-lit areas."

"With the time change be sure your light timers around the house are adjusted to the change to be sure your house stays well-lit inside and out," Oliveira said.

Early darkness allows burglars more opportunities to break into your home and vehicles around your property.

Oliveira said folks should watch out for each other to prevent housebreaks and other crimes that might increase with the early onset of darkness.

"If you see something suspicious, report it. Your safety is our priority," he said.

That's not all. Chief Oliveira offered a reminder to be aware while driving this time of the year.

"In the season of early sunsets, driving is more difficult," Oliveira said. "Please keep your sunglasses handy, headlights on, avoid distractions, and stay focused."

Cheer up. Our daily allocation of sunshine increases after the winter solstice on December 21 and daylight savings time returns on March 9, 2025.