Don’t Take a Vacation From Safety
  

People across the nation are planning grand ways to say their goodbyes to summer. Before you pack up and head out to the beach or the pool one last time, the Oregon Trail Chapter of the American Red Cross asks that you take a moment to ensure you’re heading in a safe direction.

Among the concerns vacationers need to watch for this holiday are crowded road ways. AAA estimates the recent in gas prices means that millions of people will be driving to their vacation destination.

Whether you are sticking close to home or off on an excursion, remember accidents can often be avoided through careful preparation. Here are a few precautions to keep in mind:

• Keep a kit within reach. You should always have a first aid kit in your home, by the pool, packed with your beach gear and in your car. To make sure your kit has all the necessities, log on to the American Red Cross Health and Safety Services page at http://www.redcross.org/services/hss/lifeline/fakit.html.
• You’re ready - but is your car? Don’t wait for a rattle or a warning light to find out your car isn’t up for the trip. Be sure to have brakes, tires, oil and fluids checked before taking to the roadways
• Don’t keep your plans to yourself. It’s important to share your travel plans with family and friends. Let them know the dates you plan to travel and the location where you’re staying. Always share contact numbers in case of an emergency.
• Play it safe under the sun. The sun is just as hot on Labor Day as it was 4th of July, so you’ll need to take the same precautions. Always wear sunscreen when outdoors. Make sure everyone wears a hat to shield direct sunlight. Keep enough water or juice for everyone to drink continuously throughout the day. Drink fluids even when you’re not thirsty.
• Enjoy water the safe way. Now is not the time to forget about the rules water safety. Remember: never swim alone, only swim in supervised areas, enter water feet first, and don’t mix alcohol with swimming or boating.

The American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization, led by volunteers, that provides relief to victims of disaster and helps people prevent, prepare and respond to emergencies. Oregon Trail Chapter Red Cross volunteers respond to residential fires and other disasters every 40 hours on average. All Red Cross disaster assistance is free, made possible by voluntary donations of time and money from Oregonians. Financial gifts help provide food, clothing, shelter, counseling and other emergency services. To help those in immediate need call (503) 284-1234 or visit www.redcross-pdx.org.