Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680
LAS VEGAS (May 21, 2026) — With a record number of Americans expected to travel for Memorial Day weekend, the American Red Cross of Southern Nevada is reminding drivers to prepare before leaving home and keep an emergency kit in their vehicles.
National estimates project nearly 400 traffic deaths and nearly 45,000 crash-related injuries over the holiday weekend. With more than 39 million people expected to travel by car, drivers should plan for crowded roads, longer travel times and the possibility of delays or roadside emergencies.
“Memorial Day weekend often means packed highways, longer drives and more chances for something to go wrong,” said Rachel Flanigan, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Southern Nevada Chapter. “Before leaving home, drivers should make sure their vehicle is ready, their route is planned and they have supplies in the car in case they get stranded or delayed.”
A vehicle emergency kit is meant to help drivers handle the first minutes or hours of an unexpected stop, especially if they are far from home, stuck in traffic or waiting for roadside assistance. The Red Cross of Southern Nevada recommends checking supplies before each trip and replacing anything that is missing, expired or no longer works.
Emergency Car Kit Essentials
The Red Cross recommends including the following items in a car emergency kit:
To learn more about building a complete emergency kit, visit redcross.org/kit.
Traffic Risks and Record Travel
Memorial Day weekend is expected to set a new travel record, with 45.1 million people traveling at least 50 miles from home, surpassing the previous high of 44 million travelers in 2005. More than 39 million people are expected to travel by car.
The National Safety Council (NSC) estimates 393 people may die in preventable traffic crashes over Memorial Day weekend, with nearly 45,000 crash-related injuries. Seat belts could save an estimated 243 lives if every vehicle occupant buckles up, according to NSC data analysis.
“With millions expected to travel this Memorial Day, it’s imperative we protect one another on the road,” said Lorraine Martin, NSC Chief Executive Officer. “By keeping our eyes on the road, obeying speed limits and driving sober, we each play a vital role in ensuring every trip ends safely this weekend and beyond.”
Red Cross Memorial Day Weekend Travel Safety Tips
Emergency Information at Your Fingertips
The free Red Cross Emergency app provides weather alerts, shelter locations and disaster safety information. The Red Cross First Aid app offers step-by-step guidance for common injuries and emergencies. Search “American Red Cross” in app stores or visit redcross.org/apps.
Learn More About the National Safety Council
The National Safety Council is a nonprofit safety advocate focused on eliminating preventable deaths and injuries in workplaces, on roadways and in communities. For more information, visit nsc.org. For additional information about Memorial Day fatality estimates and motor vehicle data, visit injuryfacts.nsc.org.
About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.
