Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving weekend

By U.S. ArmyNovember 26, 2014

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The Thanksgiving holiday weekend is historically one of the most traveled holidays of the year. This year, it is estimated that more than 40 million people will travel greater than 100 miles to visit and celebrate with family and friends. Regardless ... (Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

The Thanksgiving holiday weekend is historically one of the most traveled holidays of

the year. This year, it is estimated that more than 40 million people will travel greater than

100 miles to visit and celebrate with family and friends. Regardless of your holiday plans,

please keep safety considerations in mind.

As you make your travel preparations, I encourage you to carefully plan your activities

and use the Travel Risk Planning System (TRiPS) online assessment tool at

https://trips.safety.army.mil/army/Home.aspx, (CAC/PIV required). This tool helps you

identify the risks associated with your travel plans and provides sound recommendations

to make your journey successful. Please consider these additional precautionary

measures:

*Ensure your vehicle is in good working condition before departing. Have it inspected by a

competent and reliable technician.

*Be responsible ... Don't Drink and Drive. Designate an alternate driver, especially if you plan

to indulge in alcoholic beverages.

*Limit distractions while driving. Distracted driving can be anything that pulls your attention

away from driving, including cell phone use, texting while driving, eating, drinking, and even

using in-vehicle technologies.

*Buckle up! Wearing a seat belt is one of the best defenses to prevent injury and death in a

crash. Ensure all passengers are buckled-up and children are in age-appropriate safety

seats. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, all children 13 and

younger should ride in the back seat.

*Allow plenty of time, including frequent breaks, in your travel plans. This will help avoid

frustration and diminish the impulse to speed. Check the weather forecast prior to departing.

Remember to practice safe food preparation. In recent years, deep-frying turkeys has

become increasingly popular during the holidays. If you are using a deep fryer or new

method to prepare food this year, be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions and

check for video instructions on the manufacturer's online website.

As you celebrate the holiday with family and friends, I ask that you remember the

selfless service and sacrifice of those forward stationed or deployed who serve to protect

our Nation and our freedom. Please remember their families as well. My family joins me

in wishing you and your families a SAFE and Happy Thanksgiving holiday.

AMC SAFE IS ARMY STRONG!

DENNIS L. VIA

General, USA

Commanding