It will soon be vacation time.

Have you ever noticed how the “little things” cause the biggest problems? The best trip in the world can be ruined by “little things” that could have been taken care of with just a bit of attention and planning.

When traveling by automobile, such things as breaking down or gassing up in a bad area can not only scare you but may get you hurt.

• Make sure your vehicle is in good shape. Check all fluid levels, belts, and tires.
• When you get to about one-quarter tank, stop and get more gas. You KNOW you must have it, so be sure you can choose where you must stop. Your phone map may tell you where a gas station is, but it won’t tell you about the neighborhood.
• Let someone know the route you are taking as well as a description of your vehicle and when you should reach your destination.
• Do your best to travel during daytime hours.
• If you break down, STAY WITH YOUR VEHICLE. Police will be around soon. If someone stops to help, do not open your door; keep it locked and only open your window enough to speak with them. Ask them to call the police. Raising your car hood or tying a cloth to your antenna or door handle is OK. Don’t open your trunk lid because the raised lid may keep you from seeing what’s coming up behind you! Remember to get well off the roadway
• Watch for signs showing phone numbers to call for help. Almost all interstate highways and some secondary roads have them.

Please remember the MAIN safety principle. Always BE AWARE of your surroundings.

Have a safe trip!

Jim Leach’s book “You Can Tell ME, Effective Interviewing Made Simple,” is available at “booksbyleach.com” and Amazon.com.