Safety Reminders Before You Hit the Road

For sure, nobody wants to spoil the long drive to the province just because of some troubles and tribulations on the road. Here are some safety reminders:

Quick mechanical check-over

Before you rush to get your bags packed, check on the following even if your car is new.

1. Engine oil. Check your oil levels and refer on the date you’re due for an oil change. Look at your car owner’s manual for manufacturer-recommended oil-change intervals;

2. Transmission and differential fluids;

3. Hoses. At high temperatures, rubber hoses can leach out at a faster rate;

4. Belts. If they’re ragged, torn, cracked or showing the fiber cords, it’s time for a fresh one;

5. Engine coolant. Ask your maintenance advisor for the best coolant for your car;

6. Tire pressure and tread. Low tire pressure waste fuel. They cause tire to run hotter from the extra friction. Old tires may cause accidents in highway driving;

7. Battery. Don’t wait to be stranded because of a dead battery;

8. Brake system. Check your brake fluid. Inspect brake pads and brake shoe; and last but not the least,

9. Test the car. Turn off the radio. Listen for noises and feel for shakes.

Safe Driving Tips (Source: Independent Traveler, June 19, 2017)

1. Before beginning a long drive, always get enough sleep and eat a snack or meal. Highly caffeinated beverages are not necessarily the best way to stay awake while driving.

2. Pull over and take breaks every couple of hours, even if you don’t feel sleepy. Grab a snack. Get some fresh air. Stretch your legs while walking around. If you need to, take a quick nap.

3. If you can, share the driving responsibilities with someone else. This will allow you to keep an eye on each other while driving.

4. If you do not have to pull over, move your vehicle off the road. Never park on the shoulder or in an emergency lane.

5. If you have to use your mobile phone, use a hands-free device.

6. Shame on you if you don’t know this: Never drink alcohol before your trip. Don’t drink and drive.

7. Check on the weather. Plan another route to avoid inclement weather. If the road has been severely damaged by natural flooding, a minor detour could actually save you major time.

8. Use a smartphone app, such as Waze or Google maps to guide you around traffic jams, although this is not an ultimate or hard and fast rule. GPS and other apps that give you directions are not infallible. Make use of your gut feel and instinct. If you have a printed map, bring it with you for back up.

9. If you’re driving a rental vehicle, familiarize yourself with the car and all of its equipment (horn, brakes, hazard lights, tools, etc.).

10. Lock all your valuables in the trunk or glove compartment. Robbers are tempted when valuables are at plain view. Stow all luggage in the trunk.

11. When traveling with kids, be sure to stop often, not just for snacks, but also for fun and some sightseeing.

12. Stock up on healthy snacks from the grocery store and not just those that are available in gas stations and convenient stores.

13. On longer trips, keep some napkins, wet ones, flashlight, and first aid kit.