More than 132 million people are expected to travel for Thanksgiving this year. Most will likely be from the Mid-Atlantic region (New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania) and the busiest travel day will be the Sunday after Thanksgiving,
If you’re planning to travel by car, try to avoid the peak travel times and follow these American Red Cross tips to help keep you safe:
- Make sure your car is in good condition for a road trip.
- Pack an emergency preparedness kit, supplies and a first aid kit in your vehicle.
- Share travel plans with a family member or friend.
- Check the weather before departing and along your route. Plan for travel around any storms that may be coming.
- Be well rested and alert.
- Buckle up, slow down and don’t drive impaired.
- Follow the rules of the road and use caution in work zones.
- Give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
- Make frequent stops. During long trips, rotate drivers. If you’re too tired to drive, stop and get some rest.
- If you have car trouble, pull off the road as far as possible.
If winter weather threatens and you become stuck in the snow, these tips are for you:
- Stay with the car. Do not try to walk to safety.
- Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.
- Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won’t back up in the car.
- Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running to help rescuers see the vehicle.
- Keep one window, away from the blowing wind, slightly open to let in fresh air.
- Carry an emergency preparedness kit in the trunk.
- Keep your car’s gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing.