Summer Travel Readiness: Prep Smart, Travel Safe

Emily Fay

July 19, 2025

Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip, a weekend getaway, or a relaxing stay at the beach, summer is one of the busiest travel seasons. From protecting your home while you’re away to preparing for the unexpected on the road or at your destination, here are a few essential tips to keep your summer travel safe and stress-free.

Road Trip Safety Starts Before You Leave

• Prep Your Vehicle: Have your car serviced before your trip. Check tire pressure, fluid levels, brakes, and battery life. Don’t forget your spare tire and emergency kit.
• Pack a Go Kit: Include water, snacks, a flashlight, basic first aid, jumper cables, a phone charger, and physical maps in case GPS is unavailable.
• Plan Your Route & Stops: Use trusted apps or websites to plan your route but also print out a backup copy. Know where gas stations and rest areas are located, especially in rural stretches.
• Avoid Driving Fatigue: Take breaks every 2–3 hours. If driving long distances, rotate drivers when possible or plan overnight stops.

Learn more about Summer Driving Tips on BeReadyLexington.com.

Secure Your Home Before You Travel

• Lock Up & Light Up: Make sure all windows and doors are locked. Use timers for lights or smart home devices to give the appearance of someone being home.
• Pause Deliveries: Put mail and newspaper deliveries on hold or ask a trusted neighbor to collect them.
• Unplug & Protect: Unplug electronics to prevent power surge damage and reduce fire risk. Turn off the water if you’ll be gone for an extended time.
• Let Someone Know: Share your travel itinerary with a friend or family member in case of emergencies.

For assistance locating your home’s water shut-off valve, or if you have questions about your home’s water service, contact Kentucky American Water, the primary water provider for Fayette County at www.amwater.com/kyaw or call 1-800-678-6301.

Know Before You Go: Destination Safety

• Check Travel Alerts: Visit U.S. Department of State Travel.State.Gov for international advisories and sign up for Smart Traveler Enrollment (STEP) for updates. For domestic travel, check state and local emergency management websites.
• Know the Hazards: Is your destination prone to hurricanes, wildfires, or flash flooding? Make sure you know the seasonal risks and how to check forecasted weather alerts.
• Evacuation Routes: Research the local evacuation routes at your destination ahead of time, especially if staying on the coast, in mountains, or wildfire-prone areas.
• Local Contacts: Save contact information for local emergency services, hotels, and emergency contacts. Have important phone numbers available on your phone and written down.

Preparedness and planning go a long way in keeping you, your loved ones, and your home safe while enjoying summer getaways. Make safety part of your packing list!

Article by: Sam Surber