Getting Your College-Aged Child Off to School
Submitted by School Kids Healthcare Blog
It’s that time of year – back to school. You’ve got all the basics for your new college student for when they get there but don’t forget the main part – driving there. If your college-aged child is hitting the long road to school here’s a safety checklist from the American Red Cross that is a must follow whether you’re behind the wheel or waving goodbye.
Prepare for the trip:
- First and foremost, check the basic safety of your car. Are the lights and turn signals working, turn them off and on to confirm. Make sure your tires are properly pressurized and that there is no fluid leaks or a string of cans or tailpipe dragging from behind.
- After making sure your car is ready to go the distance pack up all those must haves but do not obstruct your view – double check you can easily see out the windows and mirrors before starting the car.
- Get yourself an emergency supplies kit for your car. You should have this anyway but if you don’t now’s the time to catch up. You need a first aid kit that includes a manual, blanket, flares, flashlight and batteries, jumper cables and for extra credit hand sanitizer (you don’t know who touched the gas handle before you.)
- Last but not least, get your beauty sleep.
Hitting the holiday road:
- Leave early – you’ll be thankful for this extra time when you’re traveling at a comfortable pace and not feeling stressed out because you’re behind schedule.
- Should you feel tired or restless pull over at a rest stop or gas station and take a break. Walk around, get a Gatorade and refresh yourself. If you need to check in with anyone now would be a good time.
- Do not talk or text on your cell phone while driving. Not only is this distracting it’s dangerous. If you absolutely must use your cell phone pull over (and if it’s dark, pick at well-lit area).
- Depending on where you live there’s always a chance of rain- or snowstorms. Needless to say, slow down and don’t make any sudden moves. Apply the brakes slowly and steady to help keep your vehicle under control.
- Buckle up, it’s the law.
Source: American.RedCross.org
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