Although you may be looking forward to seeing friends and relatives during the holiday season, the travel involved can cause quite a bit of stress. Whether you are flying or driving, extra travelers and winter weather can cause delays and extra challenges. Use these helpful tips to help keep the winter and holiday travel season merry by staying safe and accident free.

If you are driving:

• Have your car checked out prior to your trip.  You would not want to have your car breakdown in an unknown or remote area.  Have your oil changed and your tires rotated and checked for any signs of damage. Replace windshield wipers if necessary and top off all fluids.
• Plan your route.  Map out your trip, but also be prepared for unexpected detours.
• Check and re-check the weather forecast.  If possible, plan to either avoid expected bad weather or give yourself extra time to allow for weather delays.
• Make frequent rest stops.  Even a few short moments off of the road can help you be more alert when you are back behind the wheel and alleviate the risk of legs swelling or developing blood clots. 
• Keep an emergency safety kit in your vehicle.  Include a car cell phone charger and keep your cell phone charged. Pack a kit with an ice scraper, a small shovel, jumper cables, and sand or cat litter to help with traction.  You will want to include blankets, non-perishable snacks in case you get stuck. 
• Drive defensively. Take your time and travel at a reasonable speed. Slow down if road conditions are slippery, and be alert and aware of other drivers who may be rushing and driving dangerously.

If you are flying:

• Leave at least an extra hour earlier.  The influx of travelers and possible winter weather conditions will likely increase delays.  Plan ahead for this and make sure to get to the airport early.
• Pack light. Airlines are getting stricter regarding baggage limits and weight allowances. The more you can leave at home the better.  In order to save money, time and the risk of lost luggage, consider shipping ahead of time or shopping online and having presents delivered to your destination.
• Keep any important items with you in your carry-on bag. Carry on your toothbrush, medications and any devices. Ensure your devices are fully charged. Having these things with you will make you more comfortable should your flight be delayed.
• Stretch your legs often.  Tight quarters and long flights can lead to leg swelling and blood clots.  Take advantage of any opportunities to walk around and stretch.

          Be safe and Happy Holidays from your friends at Clark Mason Attorneys. 
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All of us at Clark Mason Attorneys  wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season. Keeping that in mind, here are a few reminders regarding how you can stay stafe.

Christmas Trees

• Make sure to add water to your tree daily and turn lights off before going to bed or leaving your house.  A dry tree can be more susceptible to catching fire, and fires from Christmas trees spread faster and can be more fatal than other house fires.
• Always inspect lights before adding them to your tree. Toss any that have loose connections or frayed wires.  Replace any burned out bulbs because the remaining bulbs can burn much hotter and brighter for each burned out bulb. To avoid the possibility of a dangerous electric shock, do not insert or remove bulbs with the set plugged in.
• Both small children and pets are easily enticed by brightly lit decorations. Ensure that your tree is secured at it's base to avoid the tree falling on them.

Decorating

• Inspect lighted decorations for any frayed wires or other damage before using.
• Use a partner when hanging decorations and inspect ladders or chairs before climbing on them. 
• When using candles, always make sure to keep them away from your tree, decorations, curtains and out of children’s reach.
• For additional tips on decorating safety, go the the Consumer Product Safety Commission website at: http://onsafety.cpsc.gov/blog/2016/12/05/tis-the-season-to-decorate-safely-2/

Shopping

• Protect your identity while shopping. Carry only the necessities in your wallet, and keep non-essential identifying information at home.   
• If you shop online, make sure to only use a secure website and log off from that site after you have completed your purchases.  

Travel

• Take proper care when traveling during the holidays, whether you are local or long distance. Give yourself extra time to reach your destination.  Many accidents are a direct result of rushing around during this time.
• Ensure that all those presents are not blocking your visibility, and that the tree on your car roof is securely tied down.
• Be alert and keep your distance from other drivers who may appear impaired.
• Use courteous and appropriate driving etiquette to ensure your safety, both on the road and in parking lots.