Tips For A Safe Vacation© Peggy Hoehne
Jun 9, 2002
Tips For A Safe Vacation
It is summer, time for the annual vacation trip. If you will be driving somewhere for your vacation this year there are some precautions you can take to make your journey safer. Whatever the season it is a good idea to keep an emergency car kit in your vehicle. These items can be packed in an old diaper bag or duffle bag. The following items are recommended to have available:
· An old towel
· Pair of working gloves
· Bottle of fix a flat
· Large screwdriver
· Pair of pliers
· Can of WD40
· Jumper cables
· Wheel chock
· Emergency road flares
· Flashlight and extra batteries
· Rubber hammer
· Short-handled shovel or spade
· Old scarf or piece of rope
· Small bag of cat litter or rock salt
· Fluorescent safety vest
· Some type of nonperishable food and bottled water
· Cigarette lighter
· Basic first aid kit
· Bottled water for the car
· Two bread bags and four rubber bands (to keep your sleeves clean
· If you live in an area prone to cold or blizzards keep a warm blanket in your car
· Cell phone so you can call for helpBefore you leave there are several things to check to ensure a more hassle free vacation trip.
· Check wiper blades and replace if they are worn. Clean them with glass cleaner or windshield wiper solvent to remove accumulated oily road film. Check the windshield washers and fill the reservoir with solvent.
· Check all lights. Signal lights, brake lights and emergency flashers are important means of communication with other drivers. Make sure both high and low beam headlights work and are properly aimed.
· Check the radiator and cowl (area on your hood just ahead of the windshield) for leaves and other debris.
· Check antifreeze and cooling system. Inadequate antifreeze can cause the car to overheat in the summer. Is the radiator pressure cap in good condition?
· Belts and hoses should be checked for cracking and wear.
· If your brakes make excessive grinding, squealing, screeching or chattering noises it is a warning they need attention. Inspect your brakes to see that they are free of corrosion and operating properly.
· Have your air conditioning evaluated before you have an expensive break down far away from home.
· Check tires for proper pressure. Temperature changes can affect air pressure. Proper inflation will maximize your gas mileage and save wear and tear on the tires.
· Windows need to be clean and in good repair. If the windshield is cracked or chipped have it repaired. Keep it cleaned of bugs and road film by cleaning it regularly with windshield wiper solvent and a clean paper towel or cloth. Keep the rear window clear of luggage, toys, camping gear, etc. Reduced vision can cause an accident.
Go To Page:
1
2
In response to message posted by jerrib:
Yes Jerri, my dad did all of the engine and safty checks on a regular basis. These days ...
|
did all this as does my husband now. I was oblivious as a kid, enjoying the trip and not worrying about safety. Now the world has changed so much one has to be prepared. Thanks for the tips! ...
|
In response to message posted by phoehne:
What a neat coincidence! My article going live tomorrow is about car care, washing the ...
|
In response to message posted by Red:
Thanks Mary! It only makes sense to do all we can to protect our families while we are away ...
|
Peggy, A great article chock full of valuable tips and information. Thanks for reminding us to take safety measures when planning our vacations. ...
|
Join the latest discussions
For a complete listing of article comments, questions, and other discussions related to
Peggy Hoehne's
Household Tips topic, please visit the Discussions page.
|
