Post by Sam Roth, American Red Cross Social Engagement Intern
Summer has officially started, and is arguably the greatest season of the year (at least to this Red Cross intern!). With summer comes warm days, sweet summer fruits, relaxing by the pool and family vacations. This summer, my family made the crazy decision to take a twelve-hour road trip up to Ogunquit, Maine. In preparing for this adventure, I wanted to share six of my favorite road trip safety tips to help keep your summer driving adventures safe, fun and (hopefully) go by quickly.
1. It’s time to hit the road, and you’re ready to go – but is your car? Don’t wait for a rattle or warning light to find out your car isn’t up for the trip. Be sure to have brakes, tires, oil and fluids checked before taking to the roadways.
I’m a first-time owner of a fifteen-year-old car, so getting mine inspected seemed intimidating. It was surprisingly easier than I thought to make an appointment with my local car shop and took only an hour or two to complete!
2. Carry a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle.
All I have to say is, thank goodness peanut butter can be included on the supplies list.
3. If you are taking your pet with you, there are special things you should know to make your trip more enjoyable.
While my family’s cat often isn’t invited on road trips, we still keep this list of helpful ideas on hand to consider before our furry family member joins us for a trip.
4. Make frequent stops. During long trips, rotate drivers. If you’re too tired to drive, stop and get some rest.
Since my family’s doing twelve straight hours in the car for our vacation, I’ve already offered to help drive for a few hours. As a bonus, this is also an excuse for me to drive my mom’s new car.
5. Keep up with news and weather alerts for the latest road conditions with the Red Cross Emergency App.
35 different severe weather and emergency alerts at your fingertips. Yes, there’s an app for that.
6. Give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.
Besides, your phone should be preoccupied pumping out our summer Spotify playlist, anyway!
Much to my dismay every year, summer doesn’t last forever. So, why not make the most of it by taking a road trip with your family? This isn’t my family’s first road trip to Maine, but now we can have a little peace of mind with my favorite six Red Cross travel tips.