The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) has launched a Safe Summer Travel Campaign, reminding drivers to put safety at the top of their travel checklist this summer.

With more residents and visitors on Florida’s roadways, the DHSMV and its Division of the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) are partnering with the Florida Department of Transportation, Florida Department of Children and Families, Florida Police Chiefs Association, Florida Sheriffs Association and AAA – The Auto Club Group to help ensure all travelers Arrive Alive.

“Summer is one of the busiest times on Florida’s roadways, and motorists should take critical steps before departing to avoid a crisis on the road,” said DHSMV Executive Director Terry L. Rhodes.

“Whether it’s a day-trip or family vacation, ensure you and your vehicle are travel-ready by checking your tires, checking for recalls and always buckle up.”

The Florida Highway Patrol will be a visible safety presence on Florida roadways this summer, educating the motoring public and taking enforcement action when needed.

To ensure tires are safe, DHSMV recommends drivers do the following:

  • Check the vehicle’s tire pressure. Under-inflated tires can overheat in Florida’s summer weather and endanger the lives of motorists and their passengers.
  • Ensure the vehicle’s tires have adequate tire tread.
  • Ensure your vehicle is not overloaded. An overloaded vehicle creates excessive heat inside tires, which can result in premature tire wear, blowouts and hydroplaning.
  • Check to make sure you have a spare tire and that it is in good condition.

The DHSMV also reminds motorists to follow this Safe Summer Travel Checklist:

  • Prepare for driving in inclement weather. Summer is hurricane season in Florida, and along with an increased number of wildfires, drivers should familiarize themselves in changing weather conditions. Drivers should know their evacuation routes, check road closures and call FHP to report unsafe road conditions.
  • NEVER leave children or pets in vehicles unattended. Summer can be incredibly hot in Florida and leaving children or pets unattended for even a short time can be deadly. Make sure all passengers are accounted for when exiting the vehicle.
  • Register emergency contact information. In the event of an emergency, make sure law enforcement knows who to call. The DHSMV allows all driver license and ID card holders to register up to two designated emergency contacts. Log on to flhsmv.gov/eci to register or update contacts.
  • Check for recalls before hitting the road at safercar.gov.
  • Slow down. Obey all posted speed limits. Speeding increases the probability and severity of a crash.
  • Drive Sober. Plan ahead and designate a sober driver or call a ride service. Report impaired drivers by dialing FHP (*347).

For more information visit: www.flhsmv.gov/summertravel.