The holidays can be both a joyful and stressful time of year. Families are on the go, running errands, going shopping and taking road trips to visit relatives and friends. Here are tips for keeping your kids safe during holiday travel.
#1 – Everybody needs their own restraint.
Make it a rule: everyone buckled, every ride, every time, whether it’s the long trip to visit family or around the block to the mall.
#2 – If you’re flying, take your car seat with you and use it on the plane.
It will be a benefit to have it with you at your destination and when you travel to and from the airport. Let car rental companies know in advance if you need to rent a car seat or booster seat.
#3 – Watch out for small kids and distracted drivers in parking lots.
This is especially important as we enter into the holiday season.
#4 – Remind inexperienced teen drivers to be extra alert.
Remind your teenage driver to be more alert during the holidays when people are more distracted and the weather is inclement.
#5 – Avoid distractions while driving.
No text message or playlist is worth the risk of taking your eyes off the road. Set your GPS to voice activated so you can concentrate on driving without having to look at your phone.
#6 – Use a car service to get home safely.
If you’re 21+ years of age and are planning on consuming alcoholic beverages, hang up the car keys and call for a cab or get a ride with a sober friend.
#7 – Secure loose objects.
Put hot foods, large gifts and anything that could fly around in a crash in your vehicle’s trunk.
#8 – Prep for weather emergencies.
Be prepared for bad weather by packing extra blankets, food, and diapers. Keep your phone charged, and make sure someone at your final destination knows the route you plan to take.
*This information is sourced from Safe Kids WorldWide.
