As the big holiday week approaches, many of us are planning to travel to see our families and loved ones all over the country. While it is wonderful to see that family still means something to so many Americans, driving during the holidays can be really dangerous. There are more cars on the road than any other time except Thanksgiving, and often the road conditions are far from optimal.
So here are some things to keep in mind this holiday season if you are planning to make your way to through the forest and over the river, to Grandmother's house. Especially if you are traveling with children, these tips can make a long slog through the traffic into a fun adventure.
Plan alternative routes
Plan several alternative routes, in fact. All it takes is one collision to back up traffic for several hours on a busy interstate during the holidays. Knowing a way around the hot spots can save time, and headaches.
In fact, consider not driving the interstates for part of the journey anyways. The hundreds of country roads that criss-cross the United States are often ignored during the holidays except for local traffic. This can be a much more interesting drive, and you will not lose as much time as you think. It can be a great opportunity to keep the kids entertained as the "real America" passes by.
However, do not make your way up a small mountain road if you do not know the territory. Last year, a family from Oregon made a fatal choice by taking a "cut-through" down a dirt road that ended up getting them lost and snowed in for days. Stick to the choices that come up on the GPS before pioneering new lands up icy roads.
Pack the car for safety
Every passenger car should have a first aid kit, a flashlight and extra batteries, and a couple wool blankets if traveling in the winter. Also make sure there are snacks and safe drinking water for every passenger in case of breakdown. You never know when these items will come in handy, and you will also feel better knowing you are prepared.
If traveling with infants, some more safety gear includes extra diapers, baby powder, baby wipes and an insect-proof ground sheet for playing safely outside. Some parents always keep an extra diaper bag in the trunk that is packed with the necessities. For more infant travel tips, visit the
Driving safely with children
Hopefully everyone already knows this, but never have a child under thirteen years old in the front passenger seat. In the event of a collision, the airbags can be dangerous - fatally so - to young children and infants.
Infant seats should always be in the back seat. If the infant is less than a year old and less than 20 lbs, the car seat should be facing backwards. After this age, front-facing infant seats are appropriate. For added precaution, check the straps and locks on all infant seats before leaving home. Improperly installed car seats can be dangerous to everyone in the vehicle. For more infant travel tips, consult the American Academy of Pediatrics.
If you are unaccustomed to driving with children in the car, make sure there are plenty of diversions for the kids to stay engaged. Children can become extraordinarily restless on long trips.... Maybe you remember this from your own childhood. By having someone in charge of keeping the kids happy - ideally not the driver - the trip will be more fun for everyone.
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