The Texas Department of Public Safety is preparing for the chaotic holiday season and is advising residents to travel safely.
While millions of Texans are preparing to hit the road ahead of Thanksgiving and Christmas, Texas DPS reminded them to make a plan, drive responsibly, and pack an emergency kit.
“Texas is a big state and, like it or not, you’re not always connected,” said Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee in a press release. “A few simple precautions can make all the difference in keeping you and your family safe.”
Before Texans leave for the holidays, the agency reminded them to ensure their vehicles are in good condition by checking the oil, wipers, brakes, tires, and lights, and filling up on gas, according to the release. If they are traveling with a gun, officials asked them to keep it safely secured.
“Responsible gun storage helps prevent thefts and keeps firearms out of the wrong hands,” the release reads.
Texas DPS also offered numerous safety tips, like refraining from drinking and driving, eliminating distractions like cell phones, and buckling up, according to the release.
Before residents leave, officials said they should check the weather and road conditions. They should also ensure their vehicle is properly maintained and their cargo is secure.
While driving, officials encouraged defensive driving, avoiding cutting off large trucks because they take longer to brake, using the left lane only to pass, slowing down for bad weather, and moving over or slowing down for first responders or stopped vehicles.
Should residents break down or get in a crash, they should clear the vehicle from the roadway – “If you can Steer It, Clear It,” according to the release. On some highways, it can be illegal to leave one’s vehicle in place when it is safe to move. If they see road hazards or suspicious activity, they should report it to the nearest law enforcement agency.
Texas DPS also encouraged residents to pack emergency items in case their car breaks down.
“If you experience a breakdown or emergency on a rural highway, help may take time to arrive,” Rippee said in the release. “That’s why having an emergency kit and preparing for the unexpected is so important.”
Travelers should pack a map or printed directions, water and non-perishable snacks, a first aid kit, medications and special supplies, and a blanket, warm clothing, and rain gear, according to Texas DPS.
Travelers should also pack a flashlight with extra batteries, jumper cables or a portable battery charger, a basic toolkit, a tire gauge and spare tire, a portable phone charger, and an ice scraper for unexpected weather.
Texas DPS also began its Thanksgiving highway crackdown on November 26, as The Dallas Express reported. The enforcement blitz will run through November 30, with troopers focusing on impaired driving and seat belt violations.
Last year, the operation brought more than 45,000 traffic citations and warnings. According to KFDA, Thanksgiving is one of the most dangerous times to drive nationwide, with drunk driving and speeding causing many deaths.
“Texas roads experience a major increase in traffic on both the days before and after the Thanksgiving holiday,” Rippee said ahead of the holiday crackdown. “We’re asking everyone to be mindful, whether you’re in [a] passenger vehicle or a commercial truck — stay alert, be patient, follow the law and focus on getting to your destination safely.”
