Here are some safety tips if you're planning a road trip this summer:
Before you leave:
1. Get your car serviced and the fluids checked. Be sure to have the tires checked, too. No only do you want to be certain that the tires have good tread, but that they are also inflated to their proper pressure. Low tire pressure can result in poor fuel mileage.
2. Check for recalls. This isn't something most folks think to do but be sure your vehicle isn't on any recall list. You'd hate to get half-way to your destination and have your breaks go out, only to find out later that there was a recall for the issue.
3. As soon as you begin planning your trip, start making a list of the things you'll need to take with you. These might include things like; extra food and water, pillows, a first-aid kit, games or videos for the kiddos, sunscreen, flashlights with extra batteries, cell phone charger, etc.
On the road:
1. Be sure everyone is buckled up...every time they get in the car.
2. Keep the kids safe. This means never leaving them unattended. Be sure the little ones are in the proper-size car seat. And be sure to keep the car doors locked after exiting so active kids can't get back inside or become trapped.
3. Plan enough time for rest stops. Driving, while fun, can also be tiring. And if you're traveling with children, they need to get out often for rest stops and to stretch their legs. Save your phone calls and texts for these breaks!
4. Obey the speed limits! It's never fun to get pulled over for speeding, but it's even worse when you're on vacation. If you're traveling to an unfamiliar area, research their driving regulations. Stay safe and always obey local laws!
5. Share the road. Warmer weather brings out more vehicles...including cars, trucks, trailers, motorcycles, and even bicycles. Share the road with them. They want to enjoy their holiday, too!
6. Be mindful of pedestrians. Almost everywhere, pedestrians have the right-of-way. They don't always pay attention, so it's up to you drivers to watch out!
7. Avoid distracted driving. Calling, texting, looking at maps and GPS, enjoying the scenery, even eating and drinking can all be included in distracted driving. Distracted driving leads to accidents.
8. Impaired driving. Alcohol and drug use, while driving, are BIG no-nos. But of course you already know that!
Safety tips if your traveling by air:
1. Fly nonstop if you can. There are few problems with lost luggage and delayed flights if you don't have to make several stops.
2. Choose a larger aircraft, if you have a choice. Aircraft with more than 30 passenger seats are were all designed and certified under the strictest regulations. In other words, use caution when flying shuttle or puddle-jumper planes.
3. Pay attention to pre-flight briefing. Yep, I know it's boring to listen to but these instructions (no matter how many times you've heard them before) can they can save your life. So pay attention...they only last a few minutes. And there may come a time, you'll be very glad you did!
4. Help keep the overhead storage bins free of heavy boxes or luggage. A heavy box or suitcase falling out of the overhead can really do some damage if it hits you, or another passenger, on the head. Check you heaviest bags when you arrive at the airport.
5. Let the flight attendants pour your hot drinks. They're used to serving food and beverages in the often-shaky skies. You, on the other hand, are not. So please let them do their job and avoid getting yourself, or others, burned.
6. Do not bring, or attempt to bring, any hazardous or restricted materials.
7. Keep your alcohol consumption down. The pressure in the cabin of the aircraft will intensify the effects of the alcohol you drink. Obviously, less is more.
8. Keep your wits about you. It's a sad but true fact, trouble can happen in "friendly" skies. Follow any instructions given to you by the pilot or crew and and keep your eyes open for any signs of impending danger. Notify the crew immediately if you suspect something's not right. Better safe than sorry!
9. If you're traveling out of your native country, do check ahead of time for local customs and regulations. No one wants to get stopped by the police, or risk going to jail over an incident that could have been avoided. Just like with driving, always obey the local laws and customs. It's good to remember that you are guest in their country.
10. Keep your money, passport, and valuables well-hidden, or in the hotel safe.
If you have travel plans this summer, I want you to have fun and takes lots of photos. But above all, I want you to stay safe!
Have a great weekend everyone and I hope to see you back here on Monday!