Be Proactive About Summer Vacation Safety
Summer is upon us and that means vacation plans are underway! Goodyear Police would like to remind you to include these important home and travel safety tips into your vacation planning. Before you travel Submit a Vacation Watch Request to have police volunteers periodically check on your home while you are away, at goodyearaz.gov/vacationwatch. It’s free! Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to watch your home. Stop mail and newspaper delivery. Leave your travel itinerary and emergency contact number with someone you trust. Place lights on a timer to give the appearance of an occupied home. Arrange for yard maintenance if away for an extended period.
Ensure all doors and windows are locked. Remove any exterior hidden house keys. While you travel Do not post vacation photos to social media; wait until you return home. If flying, keep valuables in carry-on luggage. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash. Notify credit card companies of international travel. Use the hotel safe to store valuables. Sightsee in groups and be aware of surroundings.
Prep Your Car for the Heat Ah, the open road, the wind in your hair… sounds like summer. But don’t forget about the scorching Arizona sun relentlessly beating down on your vehicle as you drive towards your destination. Although we don’t have ice and snow to navigate during the winter months, we do have some unique hot weather conditions to overcome in the summer. Make sure your vehicle is in tip-top shape to beat the heat. Heat can zap your battery. Make sure your battery is up to par before it goes out on you. Check coolant levels and top them off, if needed. Top off vital engine fluids such as motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid and power-steering fluid. Check your tire pressure. The combination of underinflated tires and hot pavement can lead to a blowout. Make sure your vehicle’s air conditioning system is functioning properly. 2
goodyearaz.gov/InFocus
Never drive in extreme heat without a fully-charged cell phone and extra drinking water for all passengers, including pets. Other must-haves include: Cooler to keep extra drinking water cold Umbrella for shade First-aid kit Flashlight with extra batteries A tool kit and battery cables Safety flares Extra radiator water
