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ATLANTIC OCEAN (November 6, 2023) – As the holiday season draws near, vacation plans are in the thoughts of service members. Whether you are traveling or staying at home for the holidays, be sure to make safety part of your plan.
Motor vehicle mishaps are the leading cause of death during the holidays.
Navy-wide, there have been 73 automobile fatalities and 44 motorcycle fatalities since 2019.
To avoid such incidents, it is especially important to consider all factors before traveling. Drive time, weather, route, and road conditions are important to consider when planning. Additionally having your vehicle inspected and fitted for the conditions ahead will aid in having a safe trip.
“Avoid sudden changes,” said Senior Chief Aviation Boatswain’s Mate (Handling) (AW/SW) Kaleb Willi, safety department’s leading chief petty officer. “It’s good to be spontaneous, but give yourself a few minutes to come up with a plan. Even a rough plan will help mitigate some of the stresses and hassles that travel brings.”
Unfortunately, no matter how thorough the plan, life happens. In the case that any incidents occur, there are steps to alleviate the distress.
Preparing for setbacks is paramount to any trip, especially during the winter months. In circumstances when a service member is unable to use a phone, they may have to rely on using a payphone. Have a list of important contacts ready, and carry a recall card of contacts in your department.
Every every trip this winter, consider bringing a battery pack/jumper cables, an ice scraper, a flashlight, de-icer windshield fluid/spray to help prevent ice buildup on your windshield, a pocket knife/multi-tool, tire chains, spare tire(s), snacks, water, blankets, and a first aid kit. In addition to quality of life items, it’s also important to verify one’s driver’s license, insurance card, passport, and membership cards are all up to date.
“Planning is everything.” said Willi, “Everytime you’re setting yourself up to rush, you’re setting yourself up for failure.”
This holiday season, travel trouble should be the last of a Sailor’s worries, don’t just travel safe, travel prepared. (U.S. Navy story by Airman Tyler T. Crowley)
| Date Taken: | 11.06.2023 |
| Date Posted: | 12.13.2023 12:19 |
| Story ID: | 459648 |
| Location: | ATLANTIC OCEAN |
| Web Views: | 14 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, Travel Safe This Holiday Season, by PO3 Tyler Crowley, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
