With the weather finally turning for the better, we turn our collective attention to hitting the road for long weekends, vacations and summer excursions.
However: before you hit the road, make sure you remember these seven quick, simple tips to keep you safe and secure this spring and summer.
- For safety’s sake, BUCKLE UP! Simply wearing your seat belt can reduce the risk of being injured or killed in an accident by roughly 50%.
- Know Where You’re Going. Having an idea of the most ideal route and corresponding directions can help you avoid unsafe neighborhoods or terrain. Map your route before you go and keep printed directions as well as a GPS or GPS-enabled device with you during your drive.
- Continually keep an eye on the weather. Check the weather for all areas you’ll be traveling to and periodically check for any impending storms on your smartphone, tablet or local radio stations. Pay close attention to any special weather alerts.
- Keep a stocked First-Aid kit in your car at all time. Your kit should include an assortment of bandages, gauze pads, antiseptic wipes and ointment as well as acetaminophen and aspirin as well as any medications you or your family may require.
- Keep a charged cell phone. A properly charged phone is crucial to getting the help you need when you need it in an emergency.
- Have the right tools to handle an emergency. At the very least, always carry drinking water, a blanket, jumper cables, a waterproof flashlight, extra batteries, foam tire sealant, duct tape, a jack and a lug wrench. If you don’t have an Emergency Road Service membership, consider purchasing one.
- Above all else, make sure your car can safely handle the trip. Before you leave, check your tires for wear and correct pressure, replace the wiper blades if worn and top off all fluid levels including oil, coolant, windshield wiper fluid, etc.
