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As people travel this holiday season, the Manitowoc County Emergency Services Department is reminding everyone to stay safe.
Department Director Rhonda Green reminded everyone during an appearance on the WCUB Breakfast Club last week to plan their route, avoid traffic congestion, and keep an emergency kit on hand in case the worst happens.
If you end up in an accident or off the roadway, Green reminds drivers to have their cell phone ready and fully charged to call 911 or a relative if they are close by.
“When you call 911 and say ‘I’m in a ditch’, there’s probably 100 people in front of you saying the same thing,” she explained. “It’s going to take a while. So, if you can get somebody to come out and get you, leave the car sit there, that’s good. And if you don’t have anybody, make sure that you have your blankets and some snacks and some water and hopefully your vehicle is running so that you can keep the heat going.”
For those flying to reach family, Green says make sure you download the airline’s app to help you get where you need to go, and don’t overpack.
If you’re bringing a carry-on, make sure it’s not too big, as it may need to be checked as a regular bag.
Once you’re on the plane, the emergency services director says, pay attention to your surroundings.
“Double check the aircraft type and the seat map if you don’t want to be stuck by a bathroom or the galley because (there’s) a lot of traffic,” she advised.
Green also reminds people with service animals and children to be mindful of others who are also trying to reach their destination.
It’s also important to be prepared for potential weather-related delays and cancellations.
For more information about holiday travel, food safety tips, and fire preparedness, visit the National Safety Council’s website at nsc.org.
