(Houston, TX) – The Harris County Office of Homeland Security & Emergency Management is urging residents to keep safety a top priority as they head out for Spring Break. Drivers need to obey all traffic laws and use extra caution as enhanced law enforcement efforts will be in effect, watching for drunk drivers, speed and seat-belt violators.
If you are traveling during the Spring Break holiday:
- Do not drink and drive.
- Buckle up everyone in the vehicle.
- Slow down – especially in bad weather, construction areas, heavy traffic and unfamiliar areas.
- Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits using a portable wireless device to read, write or send an electronic message unless the vehicle is stopped.
- Slow down or move over for police, fire, EMS and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated; and show the same courtesy to fellow drivers stopped along the road.
- Drive defensively, as holiday travel may present additional challenges.
- Do not drive fatigued – allow plenty of time to reach your destination.
- If you see a road hazard or if you observe anything suspicious, report it to the nearest law enforcement agency.
- Before heading out, make sure your vehicle is properly maintained; and always check that all cargo is secure.
- Monitor weather and road conditions wherever you are traveling. In the event of inclement weather, use extra caution on roadways. For road conditions in Texas, visit Drive Texas.
If traveling abroad, always check the U.S. Department of State website for the latest security information related to your travel destination.
Sign up to receive Harris County emergency alerts at www.ReadyHarris.org and follow Ready Harris on social media.