Tips for Summer Safety When You're Taking a Trip On the Road
28 July 1999
Tips for Summer Safety When You're Taking a Trip On the Road
LOS ANGELES--July 27, 1999--With record numbers of travelers on the road this summer, it's important to take care of yourself, your vehicle and your belongings when you're taking a trip, according to the Automobile Club of Southern California."The secret to having a great vacation actually begins before you leave your driveway," said the Auto Club's automotive engineer Steve Mazor. "First, ask your mechanic to check your car's fluid levels, belts, hoses and tires. Next, read your Auto Club map to know where you're going and how you'll get there. Taking the time to prepare your vehicle and yourself will increase the chances that you won't get lost or wind up sitting by the road for hours."
Other tips from the Auto Club for safe summer traveling:
| -- | Keep your gas tank full, seat belts buckled, doors locked and windows up. |
| -- | Try to travel on the main roads and highways. |
| -- | Don't pick up hitchhikers. |
| -- | Pack a flashlight, fire extinguisher and first aid kit. |
| -- | When you stop for breaks, go into the rest room with your children. |
| -- | Always watch for suspicious people and look for ways to avoid them. |
| -- | Don't advertise that you're from out-of-town. Put maps away and cover expensive items. Better yet, hide them in your trunk. |
Many travelers -- and motorists -- are concerned about carjackings. Here are a few things travelers can do to reduce the risk of being a carjacking victim:
| -- | If you need to stop at night, choose a well-lighted, populated service station. Try to park where you can be seen. |
| -- | If another vehicle bumps your vehicle, don't immediately jump out to check for damage. Watch the other driver. If you're uncomfortable, motion for the driver to drive to a more public place, or even a police station or fire station. |
| -- | When stopping at a traffic light, try to leave space in front of you so you can pull away if necessary. |
Even the most dependable cars can pick the worst times to be temperamental and even the best mechanics can make mistakes. In the event of a summer vacation breakdown:
| -- | Stay with the vehicle until help arrives ... either a police officer or the Auto Club emergency road service. |
| -- | Raise the car hood or tie a white cloth to a door handle. |
| -- | If you must walk to a phone, keep your group together. |
| -- | Be cautious if someone stops and seems eager to help. |
| -- | If someone motions that your tire is flat or your vehicle is smoking, don't stop until he or she is gone. Try to get to a service station or a well-lit populated place. |
The Automobile Club of Southern California, the largest affiliate of the AAA, has been serving members since 1900. Today, the Auto club's members benefit by the organization's emergency road service, insurance services, travel agency, financial products, automotive pricing, buying and financing programs, automotive testing and analysis, trip planning services, highway and transportation safety programs and legislative advocacy. Information about these products and services is available on the Auto Club's Web site at www.aaa-calif.com.
