Bangor, Maine – School’s out and summer has finally arrived. Now’s the perfect time to hit the road for that family vacation. St. Joseph Healthcare wants you and your family to stay safe during your travels, and offers the following tips to help you steer clear of danger.
Before you go:
- Have your car serviced, including checking brakes, belts, tires and fluids to avoid break-downs on the highway.
- Pack an emergency kit, including water, jumper cables, flares, flashlights, equipment to change a tire and a first aid kit, to prepare for any problems on the road.
- Check your child’s car seat or booster seat to make sure it is properly installed. Many local police and fire departments offer free safety checks upon request.
- Set a few of your lights on timers to make it look like someone is home, and have a trusted neighbor or friend pick up your mail. Make sure someone knows where you are going and when you plan to return.
- Leave your valuables and cash at home. If you plan to bring a digital camera, MP3 player, laptop or other expensive device, document the serial number before leaving.
On the road:
- Know where you are going and how to get there. Use safe, well-traveled routes; avoid taking unfamiliar shortcuts.
- Make sure all passengers are buckled up, keeping children under the age of 13 in the back seat. If your child is under 8 years old and weighs less than 80 pounds, they are required by Maine law to be in a booster seat.
- Obey traffic laws, speed limits and road signs. Use caution around railroad crossings, and slow down for work zones. Highway work is very common during the summer, so plan ahead for delays in your trip.
- Avoid aggressive drivers and stay calm. Avoid driving close to large trucks – if you can’t see the truck’s mirror, the driver can’t see you.
- Take frequent breaks, stopping at least every two hours. Avoid driving if you begin to feel tired.
- Pack plenty of non-perishable snacks and juice or water for long road trips.
At your destination:
- Never leave children or pets alone in the car with the windows rolled up, even for a few minutes.
- Cover seat belts and child safety seats with a towel or blanket while the car is parked – metal and plastic parts sitting in the sun can get hot enough to burn skin.
- If you plan to rent or bring bikes, remember bike helmets for the whole family.
- Designate a meeting site in case someone gets lost.
- Inspect your hotel room for potential dangers for small children. Bring outlet covers with you to protect curious toddlers.
Above information provided by the Public Affairs Department of St. Joseph Hospital in Bangor, Maine.
