‘Tis the season to get ready!

Flat Stella and Flat Stanley visit Queens, NY.
FEMA/Andre R Aragon

As you’re preparing for the holiday season, the Get Ready campaign reminds you to be safe while traveling. Whether you plan to visit the grandparents or take a winter ski trip, it’s important to be prepared for emergencies, disasters and infectious diseases.
 
Through all of the holiday hustle and bustle, let’s not forget how important it is to stay safe from infections and bacteria. The holiday season coincides with flu season, so it’s important to get your flu vaccine before you travel to see family and friends. The last thing you want to do is spread germs while at the Thanksgiving dinner table or unwrapping gifts. Whether you travel by train, airplane or car, you’re sure to come in contact with many people, some of whom may already be sick. Remember to wash your hands frequently with soap and water for 20 seconds, cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, and make sure to clean surfaces that could have germs on them.
 
While you may be prepared at home and have an emergency kit stowed away, emergency preparedness doesn’t end simply because you leave home. Make sure to pack a kit to keep in your car if you are taking a road trip, or to take along with you on that family ski trip. Also, know the risks of the places you are visiting. Is grandma’s house in an area at risk of earthquakes? Could a blizzard strike while you are on your ski trip? Update your communication plan before you leave home so that everyone knows what to do and who to contact in case of an emergency.
 
The Get Ready team wants your holiday season to be full of joy and cheer, and safe. Enjoy time with family and friends and update your emergency preparedness plans for your upcoming travels!

Tips for staying safe from disasters while you travel

Summer is one of the most popular times to travel. Whether you are traveling on your own or with family and friends, it’s important to stay safe by preparing for potential emergency situations. In our latest podcast, APHA’s Get Ready campaign shares advice for travelers from Michael MacNair, president and CEO of MacNair Travel Management.

Travelers need to consider a range of issues before they set off on their journey, including potential security issues at their destination, unexpected delays and disease risks.

“The biggest thing that is affecting travelers right now is weather,” MacNair told the Get Ready campaign.

To ensure that you and your family are prepared for an emergency before you travel, MacNair advises that you keep the following in mind:

• Make an emergency travel kit that includes a flashlight, extra batteries, non-perishable snacks, a water purification kit and extra cash, including the currency of your destination country.
• Make two copies of your passport, one to take with you and one to keep with a contact at home. 
• Research your destination for the weather forecast, regional customs, required immunizations and political climate. 
• Keep track of updates and changes from your travel agency or provider.

Listen to the new podcast or read the transcript for more tips from MacNair.

Remember: It’s important to be prepared for anything, especially when you are away from home. Safe travels!