NRMA warns families to be safe this summer

Families travelling this summer holidays are being advised by NRMA Motoring & Services to plan ahead to make the journey as safe and enjoyable as possible.

NRMA Road Safety Policy Adviser Anne Morphett said summer was a popular time for a family road trip and planning was critical to ensure a good and safe time was had by all.

"Long trips can be very tiring with hot cars, map reading problems and boredom contributing to a car full of stressed parents and children,? Ms Morphett said.

"Safety is critical. While the car is on the move babies and children need to be secured in an approved car seat or capsule for their age, pets properly harnessed or caged and seatbelts an absolute must for mum and dad.

"All luggage also needs to be securely packed. If the car stops suddenly an umbrella or the most innocent looking bag could turn into a lethal missile.

"Children should also never ever be left alone in cars unattended even for small errands like popping quickly into a store to buy some food."

The NRMA recommends that families travelling on road trips this summer:

• Thoroughly check and service their car before before they leave. At the very least, have the oil and coolant changed if it has been a while since the car´s last visit to a mechanic.
• Stop every two hours for 15 minutes to prevent driver fatigue and relieve boredom for the kids.
• Ensure their NRMA membership is up to date. If needed call NRMA roadside assistance on 13 11 11, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• Plan ahead and call NRMA Travel & Touring on 1300 13 11 22 for accomodation information, attractions, tickets and things to do, car and campervan rental and the latest maps, books and guides.
• Pack a small esky with snacks, drinks and frozen ice packs to prevent buying unhealthy takeaway at roadside stops.
• Play lots of fun car games and hang a back seat organiser filled with games, drinks and toys from each of the front seats.
• Check out www.mynrma.com.au for a range of great travel ideas or to use NRMA´s Travel Planner which helps save on petrol by providing the most direct route possible.

Ms Morphett said with a little care and preparation a family road trip could be exciting and carry wonderful memories for years to come.