The holidays are fast approaching and soon everyone will be loading up their cars with people, pets and presents en route to holiday celebrations. Whether driving to Grandma’s house or flying to a far-away destination, Clemson University Emergency Management wants to make sure you’re prepared and safe while traveling this holiday season.
If driving to your destination, consider the following:
- Have your car serviced to make sure it’s ready for the winter weather
- Keep an emergency kit in your car with essential items
- Get a good night’s sleep before departing and avoid drowsy driving
- Leave early and plan for regular stops along your route, particularly for longer trips
- Make sure every person in the vehicle is properly buckled up no matter how long or short the distance traveled
- Double-check that car seats are properly installed and positioned accordingly for your child’s height and weight
- Put that cell phone away; many distractions occur while driving, but cell phones are the main culprit
- Practice defensive driving
- Designate a sober driver to ensure guests make it home safely after a holiday party; alcohol or over-the-counter, prescription and illegal drugs can cause impairment
If flying during the holidays, consider the following:
- Don’t wrap gifts ahead of time, TSA has the right to unwrap and inspect all packages
- Consider shipping gifts to your destination ahead of time
- If you can’t ship your gifts, devote your carry-on bag to hold all holiday gifts so you don’t risk the airlines losing your luggage
- Designate an emergency contact and share travel plans, important documents and travel information
- Pack a small emergency supply kit to include a spare phone charger, water, snacks, first aid kit, flashlight and an emergency contact card with names and numbers.
- Wi-Fi networks at airports and hotels may not be secure. If you must connect to one, use a VPN and avoid accessing any personal or financial information.
If traveling abroad, be sure to:
- Research your destination, including the weather, local customs, culture and language
- Check for US Department of State travel warnings and CDC travel health notices
- Register with the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Travel Enrollment Program before traveling
- Consider purchasing travel insurance
- Be up to date on routine vaccines and get recommended travel vaccines and medicines
- Check your health insurance to see if it includes international travel coverage
For more tips on how to stay safe and prepared now and throughout the year, visit the National Safety Council website or Ready.gov.