For more information contact:    Tod Pritchard, WEM      Office: (608) 242-3324     Cell: (608) 219-4008        

For Immediate Release

May 21, 2014  

Memorial Day Weekend 

Tips to keep you and your family safe this holiday weekend

(MADISON) – It is considered the unofficial start of summer, Memorial Day weekend. Wisconsin Emergency Management wants you to have fun but play it safe during this busy travel weekend.

 “We all want to enjoy the Memorial Day weekend. Following these simple tips can make for a safer celebration,” said Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator Brian Satula.

• High temperatures are forecast to range from the mid-70's to mid-80's. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• When traveling to and from a holiday destination, never leave people or pets inside a parked car. Even with the windows cracked open, temperatures inside a vehicle can reach 100 degrees in less than 10 minutes.
• Make sure your car is in shape to make the trip. Having a first-aid kit, bottled water and some energy bars is a good idea in case you get stranded. A car adaptor for your cell phone is also a good idea in case you need to call for help.
• Schedule your road trip at times to help avoid the holiday travel congestion. Leaving before rush hour Friday or early Saturday and driving back Monday before 4 p.m. or after 10 p.m. should make for less traffic hassles.
• We want everyone to come home safely on Memorial Day. If you’re feeling tired, drank alcohol, or feel ill, either let someone else drive or postpone the trip.
• Check www.511wi.gov or call 511 for the latest traffic and road information on your route.

For more information go to readywisconsin.wi.gov. For daily safety tips and information, follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/readywisconsin) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/readywisconsin).