Editorial

Preparations can make a difference in holiday travel

Saturday, July 1, 2006

While many of us will be back at work Monday, a lucky few are off on a four-day weekend ending with Independence Day.

Loading food and family into the car and hitting the road is a summer tradition, whether it's for the Fourth of July or for vacation.

But nothing can spoil a good time like car trouble. Each summer sees more than 7 million car breakdowns on the road, according to experts.

Yes, holiday and vacation time is a busy time, but a few minutes now can eliminate stranded hours and hot tempers later, according to Ray Palermo, director of public relations for auto insurer Response Insurance.

Before heading out, check out the basics, including oil, transmission fluid, windshield washer, battery level and strength, tire pressure (including the spare), cooling system (which should be flushed and refilled at least every two years), belts and hoses and have a well-equipped emergency kit and tool box in the trunk.

And drivers need to stay cool as well, Palermo said. "Our studies have shown that 75 percent of drivers are fearful of encountering road rage, and 37 percent said they had personally experienced it in the previous 6 months," he said. Don't escalate aggression on the road by responding to it. Stop periodically to refresh yourself, and take along moist towelettes and water.

With temperatures in the triple digits, there are other special considerations to be made.

* Keep an eye on lights and gauges. If the temperature gauge moves up, turn off your air conditioner and turn on your vehicle's heater to its highest and hottest setting. It will be uncomfortable, but it will help draw some of the heat away from the engine. If stopped in traffic, put the car in "park" and lightly step on the gas to help circulate coolant. If the temperature reaches the red, pull safely off the road and don't drive any farther.

* Do not attempt to remove the radiator cap itself -- the coolant is extremely hot and will spray out with great force.

* If stranded in the heat, never leave a child or pet in the parked car.

* Bring a cell phone for emergency calls, but don't use it while driving.

With a little preparation, safe arrival at your holiday or vacation destination will be something to take for granted.

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