Planning, preparation keys to holiday driving success Published Dec. 10, 2007 By Tech. Sgt. Chuck Marsh 81st Training Wing Public Affairs KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, MISS. -- -- -- With the approach of the holiday season, Keesler safety officials offer these tips for driving success: Plan ahead: -- "Traveling in a car should be treated like anything else, make sure someone knows your intended route of travel and the timelines that you expect to meet going point to point," said Virgil Mitchell, 81st Training Wing chief of safety. "If you're active duty and under the age of 26, make absolutely sure you've completed the Air Education and Training Command Form 29B and follow the route and times that you indicated. "If you're staying in the local area, remember that not all traffic lights and signals have been replaced or re-paired (since Hurricane Katrina)," he said. "With the limited number of shopping areas available, including those on base, traffic can be a nightmare at any given time of day or night." Mr. Mitchell added that one of the biggest hazards in the three Mississippi Gulf Coast counties are the railroad crossings, some marked and some not marked well, if at all. Allow extra time in your schedule -- congested traffic can sometimes be avoided with a little preparation. The heaviest travel occurs the days immediately before and after Christmas and New Year's Day. Consider traveling on alternate days to avoid the gridlock. Ensure your car is ready to travel -- "Make sure that you have completed a safety inspection, being especially careful to check that the tires are in good condition, wipers are working, lights are working and always be prepared for a breakdown by having emergency survival equipment such as emergency lighting and blankets available," said Mr. Mitchell. The auto hobby shop offers classes for everyone from novice to expert mechanics on preventative car care. Free vehicle winterizing checklists are also available. Some of the following tips can be performed as do-it-yourself projects; others re-quire a professional mechanic. Engine performance -- correct engine drivability problems at a good repair shop. Cold weather makes existing problems worse. Fuel -- keeping the gas tank filled helps prevent moisture from forming. Oil -- Change your oil and oil filter as specified in your owner's manual. Cooling system -- completely flush and refill as recommended. A 50-50 mix of antifreeze and water is recommended. Windshield wipers -- replace old blades. Carry an ice scraper. Heater and defroster -- ensure these are in good working condition for passenger comfort and driver visibility. Battery -- professional equipment is the only accurate way to detect a weak battery. Lights -- inspect all lights and bulbs, replacing as needed. Exhaust system -- check for leaks. Exhaust fumes can be deadly. Tires -- examine tread wear, uneven wearing and cupping. Check sidewalls for cuts and nicks. Check tire pressure once a month. Don't forget the spare and be sure the jack is in good condition. Emergencies -- carry gloves, boots, blankets, flares, a small shovel, sand or kitty litter, tire chains, a flash light and a cell phone. Put a few "high-energy" snacks in the glove box. Think before you drive -- be aware of other drivers who may be worried, preoccupied, hurried, distracted and all those states of mind that make them easily agitated and less careful. This means being more vigilant than usual and giving people more distance. Wear Seat belts -- they help increase your chances of surviving a crash by 60 percent. Don't drink and drive -- avoid other drivers who may have celebrated too much, stay off the roads at high-risk times, such as after nightfall on New Year's Eve. If you do have a few drinks, have a designated driver, take a taxi or call Airmen Against Drink Driving, 228-377-7283.