Spring break has arrived and many of you will be hitting
the road. But do you know what it takes to travel safely? Are you prepared for
emergencies? Don't fear! I'm here to give you some pointers on staying safe
while traveling.
- Have an emergency roadside kit. Emergency roadside kits
can be lifesavers. They have essentials such as jumper cables and flares, as
well as a first aid kit. Don't want to buy one? Put one together yourself. For
an idea of what you need you can look here.
- Plan. Have a basic idea of how you're getting to your
destination. What roads, estimated stops and how long it will take should be
planned. That way you can let friends or family know when to expect you.
Planning is also good if you are heading home instead of to an unfamilar
destination. It allows you to pick the places where you can stop for gas and
food comfortably.
- Carry a phone card or cell phone. Sometimes things
happen such as getting stuck in traffic or something happening to your car.
Having a phone card or cell phone comes in handy here. Either will allow you to
call family and friends to let them know you are okay and call a service
station or Triple A if you need roadside assistance.
- Carry some extra cash. Whether you get more money from
your bank account or carry a credit card with you, having extra money is a good
idea in case of an emergency. Auto shops don't typically tow or do repairs on
your good word that they'll be repaid.
- Stop only where you feel safe. I have a friend who won't
stop at exits with national parks or such. She says it makes it too easy to
stash your body. It sounds crazy, but it makes her feel safe. Exercise that
feeling of safety. If you stop somewhere and it doesn't feel right, don't stay.
It's better to find another place to stop if it makes you feel you are in less
danger.
- Don't stop at rest areas after dark. Too much has gone
down at rest areas after dark in recent years to consider them safe. Why do you
think there are cops there all the time now? It's great to have a place to get
off the road and use restrooms without having to buy something, but not at
personal risk. Your best bet is to stop at a gas station; it's much safer.
I hope these tips allow you to have a fun and safe spring break.
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