AFFTC Safety Office offers Thanksgiving travel tips

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  • Air Force Flight Test Center Safety Office
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Thanksgiving is about being with family. Because of this, there will be a rise in highway traffic accidents, with many motorists driving in unfamiliar areas. Caution and patience is paramount so all arrive safely to loved ones.

The following tips demonstrate how to navigate through highway traffic and arrive at your destination:

· Prepare your vehicle for long distance travel. Check wipers and all fluids. Have the radiator and cooling system serviced. Simple maintenance can prevent problems that strand motorists on the side of the road.

· Plan Ahead Before getting on a highway. Know your exit by name or number and watch the signs once near the off ramp. Drivers who make unexpected lane changes to exit often cause accidents.

· Use a map or GPS Few motorists plan their routes. Even when driving through unfamiliar areas. Knowing the road is essential for safe driving. It allows one to anticipate lane changes and avoid a panicked search for directions.

· Create or check emergency kit. Contents should include: battery powered radio, blanket, jumper cables, fire extinguisher, first aid kit, bottled water, non-perishable foods, maps, tire repair kit and flares.

· Be aware of changes in the weather. Weather conditions across the country will be changing, especially early mornings and evenings with the cold. Watch out for ice, snow and other weather related obstacles.

· Do not cut in front of large trucks. Remember large trucks are heavier and take longer to stop.

· Be aware of truck blind spots. When sharing the road with large trucks, be aware of their blind spots. If the driver cannot see the truck driver in their mirrors, then the truck driver cannot see the driver.

· Slow Down. With the extra highway congestion due to holiday travel, speeding becomes even more dangerous. Allow plenty of space between other vechiles and reduce speed.

· Buckle Up. Safety belts reduce the risk of fatal injuries by 45 percent and are a simple way to increase road safety.