Be safe while traveling this Thanksgiving

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Charles Ladnier
  • 17th Training Wing Safety
GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  This Thanksgiving holiday, more than 13 million Americans will travel to spend time with their friends and family. Most holiday travelers get to where they are going by car.

To arrive safely, 17th Training Wing Safety recommends these safety tips for travelers who will drive to visit their loved ones this Thanksgiving:

· Make sure the vehicle is in good working condition.
· Start out with a full tank of gas.
· Check tire tread, tire pressure, windshield wipers, brakes and make sure all fluids are full.
· Check the weather forecast for the entire route.
· Clean the vehicle's headlights, taillights, signal lights and windows.
· Turn the headlights on as dusk approaches, or if using windshield wipers due to inclement weather.
· Tell friends and family the trip plans and when to expect to hear from you.
· Buckle up, slow down and never drive impaired.
· Be well rested and alert.
· Give full attention to the road - avoid distractions such as texting and cell phone calls.
· Observe speed limits and drive for the conditions.
· Make frequent stops during long trips, rotate drivers; if the driver is tired, stop and get some rest.
· Be respectful of other motorists, drive defensively and follow the rules of the road.
· Don't follow another vehicle too closely; leave room to react to the unexpected.
· If car trouble develops, pull off the road as far as possible and use hazard lights.

According to National Highway Traffic Administration, it's recommended to keep an emergency preparedness kit in the vehicle. Useful items include water, snacks, a flashlight, tool kit, first aid kit, extra cash and blankets.