REGINA — As families across Saskatchewan prepare for summer road trips, camping adventures, and time outdoors, CAA Saskatchewan is reminding families to make safety part of their plans.
“Summer should be about relaxing, connecting with loved ones, and making memories, not dealing with preventable emergencies,” said Angel Blair, communications manager.
“Before you turn on vacation mode, reduce your stress load. Stay safe this summer by planning ahead, checking your vehicle, and staying alert.”
The CAA offers advice for before you hit the road to keeping safe during your vacation.
Before you hit the road
- Check your vehicle before you go: Inspect tires, battery, coolant, oil, wipers, and washer fluid. Pack water, snacks, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, a roadside safety kit, jumper cables and a fully charged cell phone with a portable battery pack.
- Tow with confidence: If you are pulling a trailer, boat, or camper, confirm your vehicle can tow the load, secure the hitch and safety chains, check lights, tire pressure and cargo, and leave extra space for braking and turning.
- Fuel-efficiency tips: Simple habits like driving smoothly, maintaining proper tire pressure and planning your route can help reduce fuel use.
- Be prepared: For longer trips or travel outside the province, families should also review important documents before leaving. Make sure your driver’s licence, registration, insurance and travel coverage are up to date.
- Consider roadside peace of mind: A CAA membership offers roadside assistance that follows the Member, not just the vehicle. RV coverage is also available for motorhomes, campers and trailers.
Slow down and stay alert
- Stay focused behind the wheel: Set navigation before leaving, keep phones out of reach, avoid eating or adjusting controls while driving and take breaks on longer trips.
- Watch for people outside the vehicle: Slow down in school zones, parks, playgrounds and residential areas. Teach children the rules of the road and make sure their helmets fit properly for biking, scootering or ATV riding.
- Slow Down, Move Over: Slow down to 60 km/h and give extra space to emergency vehicles, tow trucks and roadside workers. Pay attention and scan the road ahead so you’re ready to slow down.
Outdoor and home safety
- Fire safety – watch for sparks: Summer’s hot, dry conditions can increase the risk of fires, making fire safety more important than ever. Use fireworks, barbecues, fire pits, campfires and outdoor equipment with care, and never leave a campfire unattended. Keep dry grass, leaves and other flammable materials away from your home, deck, and outdoor fire areas. Test your smoke alarms regularly to ensure they’re working properly and make sure your household has a fire escape plan that everyone knows and can follow in an emergency.
