Summer Travel and Vehicle Safety: Preparedness & Community Readiness
July | Preparedness & Community Readiness
Summer is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year. Whether you're taking a weekend getaway, heading to the mountains, visiting family, or simply spending more time on the road, a little preparation can make your trip safer and less stressful.
As part of our Community Risk Reduction efforts, the Statesville Fire Department encourages residents to think beyond packing their bags. Preparing your vehicle, planning your route, and knowing what to do in an emergency can help prevent small inconveniences from becoming major emergencies.
Here are five ways to travel safely this summer.
Prepare Before You Go
The safest trips begin before you ever leave your driveway. Before traveling:
- Check the weather forecast along your route.
- Plan your route and identify alternate roads if needed.
- Let a family member or friend know your destination and expected arrival time.
- Make sure your phone is fully charged before leaving.
- Review local traffic conditions before you hit the road.
A few minutes of planning can save hours of frustration and help you stay safe if conditions change unexpectedly.
Build a Vehicle Emergency Kit
No one expects to become stranded, but being prepared can make all the difference. Consider keeping these items in your vehicle year-round:
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- First aid kit
- Bottled water
- Non-perishable snacks
- Jumper cables
- Tire pressure gauge
- Basic hand tools
- Phone charger or portable battery pack
- Reflective triangles or roadside flares
- Blanket and rain poncho
Having emergency supplies readily available can provide peace of mind whether you're traveling across North Carolina or just across town.
Know What to Do if Your Vehicle Breaks Down
A vehicle breakdown can happen without warning. If your vehicle becomes disabled:
- Move as far off the roadway as safely possible.
- Turn on your hazard lights immediately.
- Stay inside your vehicle if you're on a busy roadway, unless remaining inside is unsafe.
- Call for roadside assistance or 911 if you are in immediate danger.
- If you must exit your vehicle, do so carefully and stay well away from traffic.
Remaining calm and making smart decisions helps protect you and other motorists.
Travel Smart in Summer Heat
High temperatures can create dangerous conditions for both people and vehicles. Before traveling:
- Check your tires, coolant level, and engine fluids.
- Keep plenty of drinking water in your vehicle.
- Take breaks during long trips.
- Watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including dizziness, nausea, and excessive sweating.
- Never leave children or pets inside a parked vehicle - even for a few minutes.
North Carolina summers can be hot and humid. Preparing for the heat helps everyone arrive safely.
Stay Connected While You Travel
Communication is one of the simplest ways to stay safe while traveling. Before you leave:
- Share your travel plans with a trusted friend or family member.
- Keep emergency contacts easily accessible.
- Charge your phone before leaving and carry a vehicle charger or portable battery pack.
- Enable emergency alerts on your mobile device.
- If traveling to unfamiliar areas, know where to find weather updates and local emergency information.
If your plans change or an emergency occurs, staying connected helps others know where you are and allows you to receive important safety information.
Safe Travel Begins with Preparation
Whether you're heading across the state or simply enjoying everything North Carolina has to offer this summer, preparation is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your family.
Community Risk Reduction is about preventing emergencies before they happen. Taking time to inspect your vehicle, pack emergency supplies, plan your trip, and stay connected can make every journey safer.
The Statesville Fire Department encourages everyone to enjoy summer travel responsibly and return home safely.
Preparation doesn't end when you leave home - it travels with you.
View additional tips on our website at fire.statesvillenc.net/community-risk-reduction.
