Take steps to make holidays memorable for right reasons

  • Published
  • By Chris Tirey
  • 88th Air Base Wing Safety
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  This holiday season, many people will be traveling to various locations to celebrate Thanksgiving with friends, relatives and loved ones.

Since the whole premise of this time of year is to be thankful rather than regretful, consider the following travel safety suggestions to make the holiday memorable for the right reasons.
› Check the weather forecast.
› Ensure your vehicle is road worthy. Have it checked out by a competent mechanic.
› Allow sufficient time to arrive 15 minutes early at a safe speed.
› Make sure someone (such as a supervisor or wingman) knows when you intend to leave for your destination and when you expect to return.
› Take a map in case traffic is rerouted and a plan B is required.
› Don't forget to bring a cell phone.
› Be prepared for an unexpected delay. Keep a warm coat in the vehicle if you are in the habit of dressing for the destination rather than the weather conditions.
› Assume your fellow drivers may not be as attentive, familiar with the areas they are traveling or as sober as you are.
› Limit the number of destinations as much as possible to avoid drowsy leap-frogging from one feast to another.

Look out for one another, make smart travel decisions, and enjoy a wonderful, safe Thanksgiving.