December is a busy time on the roads and highways. Students are leaving campuses to get back home, business travelers are getting their travel done for the year, and families are hitting the road to join loved ones for the holidays.
Whatever your reason for hitting the road this holiday season, here are the top safety tips for holiday travel as seen in an article from Yahoo!.
1. Have an itinerary. To keep safe, make sure you write up an itinerary and share it with others, noting your estimated time of departure and arrival.
2. Leave early. Don’t wait until the last minute to leave when you know you have a long drive ahead.
3. Take breaks every 2-3 hours (or less). If you’re traveling alone or with family, make sure you make periodic stops along the way to stay alert and stretch. Taking a break from driving every so often will help you manage your stress and that of your passengers.
4. Keep your cell phone charged and handy. Whenever you travel, but especially during the busy holiday season, make sure your cell phone is charged and ready to go for your trip. If driving, make sure you check in during stops along the way with friends and loved ones at your destination. But, don’t use your cell phone while driving! Many states ban talking or texting behind the wheel. You don’t want to waste money on a traffic ticket that you could have used on presents.
5. Keep a map, GPS or directions handy. Make sure you map out your trip in advance. It’s also helpful to think about alternative routes if you expect to hit traffic or construction delays.
6. Don’t advertise your trip or valuables. Don’t give anyone the impression that you are unfamiliar with the area and keep valuables and other property out of sight. Also, crooks check social media sites like Facebook or Twitter, so don’t broadcast that your house will be empty for a week.
7. Plan for a flat tire or car trouble. Make sure you review your insurances and road side assistance in advance of your trip. Keep registration, insurance, and other information in your glove box during the trip.
8. First aid and other gear. When traveling in cold climates, make sure you bring provisions, like food and water, blankets and a first aid kit in the event of severe weather. Make sure you bring a flashlight and flares, and other safety gear.
Planning ahead during the busy holiday travel season will help you deal with anything that might happen along the way.
