The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is offering travel advice for those taking to the roads for the Labor Day Weekend.
Trooper Ken Duncan, OHP Troop F Public Information Officer, reminds those behind the wheel to “drive with caution.” Statistics show Labor Day is traditionally a heavy traffic holiday. OHP statistics indicate in 2009 there were 32 collisions in the Troop F area (Carter, Johnston, Love, Marshall, Murray, Garvin and Pontotoc counties.) Eleven of those accidents resulted in injuries.
Duncan said there are a number of things motorists can do to make sure their Labor Day trip is a safe one including the following:
Before leaving home:
- Conduct a close inspection of your vehicle’s belts, hoses and tires and replace those that are worn
- Check that the spare tire is in good condition
- Make sure all tools required to change a flat tire are in the vehicle
- Make sure there is a supply of water stored in the vehicle — for both the vehicle and occupants
- Always travel with a first-aid kit, a blanket and a flashlight
On the road
- Allow yourself extra time to reach destination due to heavier traffic
- Stay alert to the surroundings
- Stop and take breaks to avoid becoming sleepy
- If you become the victim of road rage, pull off the road and into the nearest public place
- Buckle up and don’t drink and drive
“By following these simple tips, motorist will reduce their chances of being in an accident and keep themselves safe during the holiday or any other day while traveling,” Duncan said.
Throughout Troop F and across the state troopers will be out in full force participating in the national “Drunk Driving — Over the Limit — Under Arrest” campaign. Motorists are being encouraged to assist in the special emphasis by using their cell phones to report erratic driving. Reports can be made by dialing *55 and providing a description of the vehicle, its location and direction of travel.
In addition troopers will participate in “Operation Combined Accident Reduction Effort” starting at 6 p.m. Friday and continuing through midnight Monday. “Operation C.A.R.E.” focuses on seatbelt violations, drunk driving and speeders.
OHP’s Lake Patrol troopers will also be in “full force” on the water.
“Boaters should have the required equipment, such as life jackets, personal flotation devices, fire extinguisher and navigation lights after sunset. Every child 12 or under is required to wear a life jacket, “ said Capt. Mike Mize, Lake Patrol Division Commander.
Mize said the majority of boating crashes are the result of inattention or alcohol.
“Stressors on the water, such as the glare of the sun and heat intensify the effects of alcohol. It is just as dangerous to operate a water craft while intoxicated as it is to operate a motor vehicle while intoxicated. The penalties are the same, including jail time, loss of driving privileges, fines and court costs.
“Please keep a proper lookout while underway and watch for children in the water at all times, especially near the shores or docks.”
