Red Cross reminds drivers to prepare vehicles and pack emergency kits for Labor Day travel

With millions hitting the road, the Red Cross urges motorists to plan ahead, drive responsibly and carry essential supplies to reduce risks during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year.

As millions of Americans prepare to hit the road for Labor Day Weekend, the American Red Cross of Northern Nevada is urging drivers to prioritize safety and preparedness to help prevent accidents and handle emergencies. With the National Safety Council projecting nearly 425 traffic-related deaths and more than 48,000 injuries nationwide during the holiday period, taking simple precautions can make a lifesaving difference.

“Before heading out this holiday, make sure your vehicle is in good working condition, your gas tank is full and you have an emergency kit ready,” said Bridget Posson, Executive Director for the American Red Cross Northern Nevada Chapter. “Buckle up, drive responsibly and plan ahead to ensure a safe and enjoyable weekend for everyone.”

Pack an emergency kit
With many families expected to drive at least 50 miles or more, the American Red Cross of Northern Nevada advises motorists to prepare a well-stocked emergency kit for their vehicles.

The Red Cross recommends including the following items
• High-protein snacks.
• Water.
• First aid supplies.
• Flashlight and extra batteries.
• Small battery-operated radio.
• Blanket.
• Basic tools and a tire repair kit.
• Jumper cables.
• Map.
• Cellphone charger.
• Emergency contact card with names and phone numbers.

For more information on building a complete emergency kit, visit redcross.org/kit.

Drive responsibly
With tens of millions of people traveling by car this Labor Day Weekend, the NSC analysis indicates that 424 lives may be lost nationwide due to preventable traffic accidents, and more than 48,000 injuries could occur. Data shows that 36 percent of traffic fatalities during the Labor Day holiday involve alcohol-impaired drivers.

“Labor Day weekend travel requires extra caution,” said Mark Chung, Executive Vice President of Safety Leadership and Advocacy at NSC. “This remains one of the most dangerous times for roadway users, and everyone plays a role in preventing tragedies. Drivers must take the necessary steps to travel safely.”

Red Cross Labor Day weekend travel safety tips
• Drive defensively: Always wear a seatbelt, designate a sober driver, get enough rest and avoid distractions.
• Prepare your vehicle: Inspect tires, check the oil and confirm your emergency kit is fully stocked.
• Avoid impairment: Remember that drugs and alcohol, including certain prescription medications, can impair driving ability.
• Monitor speed: Obey posted speed limits and adjust speed based on weather and traffic conditions.
• Stay focused: Put phones out of reach and minimize distractions to keep attention on the road.
• Check the back seat: Always double-check the vehicle before locking it to ensure no children or pets are left behind.

Emergency information at your fingertips
Be better prepared for emergencies by downloading the free Red Cross apps. The Emergency app provides live weather updates, shelter locations and expert disaster advice, while the First Aid app offers step-by-step guidance for injuries, including lifesaving CPR instructions. Search “American Red Cross” in your app store or visit redcross.org/apps to download.

Learn more about the National Safety Council
For more than 110 years, the National Safety Council has been America’s leading nonprofit safety advocate, dedicated to eliminating preventable deaths and injuries in the workplace and on roadways. For more information, visit nsc.org. For additional information about Labor Day fatality estimates and motor vehicle data, visit injuryfacts.nsc.org.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.