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101 Critical Days of Summer: Get to your summer vacation destination safely

By 1st Lt. Rhett Reber, 12th Missile Squadron / Published June 08, 2007

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MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- "Where do you kids want to go this summer?" asks Mr. Griswold in National Lampoon's 'Vacation.' "Wally World Dad, Wally World!" the youngsters reply. So, the Griswold family prepares for the 2,000-mile drive in their trusty station wagon to the most exciting theme park in the world. 

Unfortunately for the Griswolds, that trip included accidents, getting lost and eventually holding Wally World hostage. 

Any summer vacation has the potential to be a great disaster as well, but many things can be done to prevent a vehicle safety mishap from ruining a vacation. 

In all seriousness, vehicle safety is critical, especially during this vacation season. In Montana, we are far from our destinations and many choose to drive. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, last year in the United States, nearly five people died every hour from vehicular accidents. More than 43,300 Americans - brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers and children - died on the roads last year. This season, let's reduce our chances of being involved in those types of mishaps. 

Accidents are inevitable. However, action can be taken to lessen the risk of letting a wreck on the road devastate a vacation. Here are some measures to increase the chances of having an accident free vacation this summer. 

Prepare yourself and your vehicle
Have routine maintenance performed on the vehicle throughout the year.
Perform a pre-vacation inspection to include fluids, all tires, tool kit, emergency kit and lights.
Get plenty of rest before starting the trip.
Pack in advance to avoid being rushed. 
Start early to avoid traveling at night when accidents are more likely to occur. 
Plan the route in advance to avoid looking at maps while driving. 

Practice safe driving 
 Buckle up. The possibility of death is four times higher if an individual is ejected from a vehicle. 
Avoid distractions such as electronics, food, passengers, wildlife, etc 
Make pit stops to eat or let someone else drive. 
If the driver feels drowsy, stop to take a nap or switch drivers. 
Give other drivers plenty of room - especially on the highway. 
Obey speed limits. 
Slow down when road conditions are not ideal. 
Use mirrors to be aware of the road and other drivers. 
Pass with care.
 
Avoid unnecessary risks 
Don't drink and drive. 
Don't go into road rage. 
Don't showboat to impress friends or that person passing in the little red sports car. 

Summer vacations should be memorable experiences. Know your limits and use common sense. For more information on driving safety contact the Wing Safety office at 731-6714 or go to www.nhtsa.dot.gov.
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