ATLANTA, GA., December 22, 2017 — Millions of people are expected to travel over the upcoming Christmas holiday, and the American Red Cross is offering tips travelers can follow as they visit loved ones over the long weekend.
DRIVING SAFETY
1. Make sure your car is in good working order. Fill your gas tank, check the air pressure in your tires and make sure you have windshield fluid.
2. Pack an emergency preparedness kit and supplies in the trunk.
3. Share travel plans with a family member or friend. Check the weather along your route and plan for travel around any storms that may be coming.
4. Buckle up, slow down, and don’t drink and drive. Follow the rules of the road and use caution in work zones. Avoid distractions such as cell phones- don’t text and drive.
5. Make frequent stops on long trips. If you’re too tired to drive, stop and get some rest.
6. If you have car trouble, pull as far off the road as possible.
PLANES, TRAINS
It’s flu season. If you’ve been sick or been in contact with someone who is sick, consider postponing your trip. You could be contagious for a week before symptoms appear.
Remember that everything you touch is likely touched by someone else – luggage, seats, etc. – which is how germs are spread.
7. Handle your own belongings. Wash your hands often with soap and water.
8. Carry hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial wipes with you. You can use them to wash your hands or wipe down surfaces such as armrests.
9. Bring your own pillows and blankets – they can act as a shield against the seat itself.
10. Avoid touching your face or eyes. If you have to cough or sneeze, do so into a tissue or your sleeve.
BONUS TIP
Download the American Red Cross First Aid App. The app provides quick, expert advice on what to do in case of an emergency. This free app is available on the Apple iTunes or Google Play stores. See all Red Cross apps at redcross.org/apps.
About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Crossshelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or cruzrojaamericana.org, or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.
