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Plans for a safe road trip

Road trip season has arrived, and it promises to be unlike any other in recent memory. The outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 has changed how people go about their daily lives, including how they travel.
Road trip
Travel may involve some risk until a treatment or vaccine for COVID-19 is developed, but day trips by car are among the safer ways to get out and about and experience the majesty of nature this summer and fall.

Road trip season has arrived, and it promises to be unlike any other in recent memory. The outbreak of the novel coronavirus COVID-19 has changed how people go about their daily lives, including how they travel.

Travel may involve some risk until a treatment or vaccine for COVID-19 is developed, but day trips by car are among the safer ways to get out and about and experience the majesty of nature this summer and fall.

· Plan for fewer pit stops. The fewer stops drivers make on their trips, the lower their risk of being exposed to the COVID-19 virus. In lieu of dining out during your trip, pack your lunch at home and take it with you. In addition, fill up your car before embarking on your trip so you don't have to visit the filling station while on the road. Bring enough water and snacks so you can stay hydrated and don't become hungry while out and about.

· Avoid densely populated areas if you intend to get out of your vehicle. If you intend to get out of your vehicle during a road trip, avoid visiting areas that tend to draw large crowds. Popular lookout points may provide some beautiful fall views, but such points also draw crowds that may exceed the limits on group gatherings recommended by health agencies.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that anyone who intends to travel take certain steps to protect themselves while away from home. The CDC advises travelers to wash their hands often while traveling, but fully operational restrooms may not be easy to find while on the road, as many communities have closed such facilities in an effort to stop the spread of COVID-19.

But that doesn't mean drivers and their passengers can't keep their hands clean as they take to the road. An on-the-go handwashing kit that includes the following items is easy to carry and makes for an effective way to wash your hands while on the road this fall.

· Water bottle(s) with cap: Pack enough water bottles with caps to accommodate your entire traveling party.

· Antibacterial soap/hand sanitizer: The CDC advises washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after going out in public, touching surfaces frequently touched by others and/or after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing. If you bring hand sanitizer, make sure it's at least 60 per cent alcohol.

· Paper towels/wash cloths: Pack paper towels or wash cloths so you can dry your hands after washing them.

· Garbage bag: If you're visiting a park or trails, remember to bring a garbage bag along so you do not leave dirty towels or empty water bottles behind. A plastic bag from the grocery store can suffice if you’re traveling party is small.