{"id":27818,"date":"2024-11-18T09:08:18","date_gmt":"2024-11-18T14:08:18","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/news.maryland.gov\/mdem\/?p=27818"},"modified":"2025-02-28T11:14:10","modified_gmt":"2025-02-28T16:14:10","slug":"as-holiday-travel-season-starts-mdem-stresses-safety-vigilance","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/news.maryland.gov\/mdem\/2024\/11\/18\/as-holiday-travel-season-starts-mdem-stresses-safety-vigilance\/","title":{"rendered":"As Holiday Travel Season Starts, MDEM Stresses Safety, Vigilance"},"content":{"rendered":"

\u201cKnow Before You Go\u201d and Prepare for Longer Travel Times; Practice Safe Travel Habits Year-Round<\/span><\/i><\/h2>\n

\"Maryland<\/p>\n

HANOVER, MD (November 18, 2024) \u2014\u00a0 <\/b>Planning to be one of the millions of travelers nationally this holiday season?<\/span> The Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) wants to make sure all Marylanders remain vigilant whenever they travel, especially during the busy holiday season. MDEM\u2019s Annual <\/span>Maryland Travel Safety Week <\/span><\/i>encourages Marylanders to practice safe travel habits while using all modes of transportation throughout the year.<\/span><\/p>\n

MDEM also reminds travelers that, regardless of their mode of transportation, they should remember to \u201cKnow Before You Go\u201d and \u201cIf You See Something, Say Something.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

“As we prepare for the busy holiday travel season, it\u2019s essential to plan ahead and stay alert, no matter how or where you\u2019re traveling,” said MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland. “Traveling during the holidays should be about connecting with loved ones, not stressing over unexpected challenges. By following simple safety tips and staying MdReady, we can all help make this season safer and more enjoyable for everyone. Let\u2019s ensure our journeys are as memorable as our destinations.”<\/span><\/p>\n

MDEM designated November 18-24 as <\/span>Maryland Travel Safety Week<\/span><\/i> in preparation for the beginning of holiday travel to encourage safe travel all year on all modes of transportation. MDEM encourages travelers to learn about safe travel practices whether using roads, air, or rail, and as pedestrians and bike riders. You should also be aware of safety at various types of lodgings and gatherings.<\/span><\/p>\n

MDEM encourages Marylanders to review some of these simple practices recommended by safety specialists covering a variety of transportation methods.<\/span><\/p>\n

Know Before You Go <\/b>\u2014<\/span> Head out for travel informed and prepared so you know the travel conditions while en route to your destination. Check on road and traffic conditions along your route; check for last-minute delays or cancellations before heading to the airport or train station; and always check local weather forecasts to make sure you pack appropriate clothing and prepare for potential travel delays.<\/span><\/p>\n

If You See Something, Say Something <\/b>\u2014<\/span> If you see a suspicious activity, device, or package, or overhear a suspicious conversation, report it immediately to a facility manager, carrier employee, or law enforcement. If you see accidents or hazards along the roadway or hiking\/biking trails, make sure to alert local law enforcement, highway officials, or park employees so they can respond.<\/span><\/p>\n

Safety tips when traveling by motor vehicle<\/span><\/h2>\n

Over the last few years, the State\u2019s \u201c<\/span>Move Over Law<\/span><\/a>\u201d has been expanded to require motorists to make a lane change or slow down when approaching <\/span>ANY <\/b>stopped, standing, or parked vehicle displaying warning signals \u2013 including hazard warning lights, road flares,<\/span> and other caution signals including, traffic cones, caution signs, and non-vehicular warning signs.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Other tips for drivers include:<\/span><\/p>\n