Media contact: Keith Paul
Regional Communications Director
keith.paul@redcross.org | 702-400-7680

SALT LAKE CITY (Sept. 2, 2026) — A dead battery, flat tire or empty emergency kit can derail a Labor Day road trip. More than 400,000 drivers nationwide needed roadside assistance during last year’s Labor Day holiday, and with another busy weekend ahead, the American Red Cross of Utah is urging drivers to check their cars, pack emergency supplies and make safe choices behind the wheel.

Getting stranded is only one concern. A National Safety Council analysis estimates 434 people may die and 49,500 more may be injured in traffic crashes nationwide during the Labor Day holiday period from 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4, through 11:59 p.m. Monday, Sept. 7.

“The best time to find out your battery is weak or your tire is worn is before you leave home, not on a crowded highway,” said Michael Smauldon, Executive Director of the American Red Cross Northern Utah Chapter. “A few minutes of preparation can prevent hours of trouble and help keep everyone in the car safer.”

Prepare Before Leaving Home
Car problems are easier to deal with in the driveway than on the side of a busy highway. Before heading out for Labor Day Weekend, check tire pressure and tread, test the battery, and inspect oil and other fluid levels. The Red Cross also recommends keeping the gas tank or charge from getting too low, especially when traveling through rural areas where it may be a while before reaching the next gas or charging station.

Drivers should also make sure they have an emergency kit in the car with water, high-protein snacks, first aid supplies, a flashlight and extra batteries, jumper cables, a blanket, basic tools, a cellphone charger and emergency contact information. Kits should be checked regularly so expired items can be replaced and missing supplies restocked. More information is available at redcross.org/kit.

Safe Driving Can Prevent Tragedies
Labor Day has historically been one of the more dangerous holiday periods on U.S. roads. Traffic deaths during the Labor Day holiday over the past six years were 9% higher on average than during the weekends immediately before and after the holiday. In 2024, 34% of Labor Day traffic fatalities involved an alcohol-impaired driver.

Seat belts can make a significant difference. An estimated 106 lives could be saved during this year’s Labor Day holiday period if everyone buckles up.

The Red Cross recommends drivers:

• Wear a seat belt and make sure everyone in the car is buckled up.
• Never drink and drive. Plan ahead for a sober ride home.
• Put phones away and keep attention on the road.
  Slow down and use caution in heavy traffic, bad weather and work zones.
• Get enough rest before driving and take breaks on long trips.
• Give emergency vehicles, roadside workers and disabled cars plenty of space.
• Always check the back seat for children and pets before locking the car.

Download Red Cross Apps
The free Red Cross Emergency App provides weather alerts, shelter locations and disaster safety information. The free 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 to download.

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.