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How to Travel Safely

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Beyond satellite safety and green strides, Apple's game-changer ? USB-C charging! Ditch those Lightning cables and pack just one cable for all your devices on your next adventure.

After once again getting used to going where we want when we want, COVID-19 dropped its latest variants . On September 11, 2023, the CDC approved new COVID boosters amid upticks in cases and hospitalizations across the U.S. And they encourage you to get it before your next trip.

“We have more tools than ever to prevent the worst outcomes from COVID-19,” said Director Mandy Cohen, M.D., M.P.H. “CDC is now recommending updated COVID-19 vaccination for everyone six months and older to better protect you and your loved ones.”

Knowing how to travel safely is always important, but during our current viral onslaught, safety is more crucial than ever. Amid a carousel of new variants and rising flu case counts, it can be hard to know what to do when it comes to travel these days. 

To help you satisfy that wanderlust safely, we’ve updated our travel safety guidelines. We added specific tips about protecting yourself and your fellow travelers during the ongoing days of the coronavirus.

It’s important to stay updated on the latest travel guidance from the CDC to keep you and those you visit safe and healthy.

How to travel safely during COVID-19

Before you leave.

• Travel safety tips for the whole family

Safety tips for air travel

• While you're on vacation

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Travel safety begins before you even leave the house. From making sure your home is secure to brushing up on current coronavirus restrictions wherever you're going, planning ahead sets you up for travel safety success.

Secure your home before you leave on vacation

To deter potential burglars, you want to make sure your home looks lived in even while you are away. Statistics show that burglaries tend to rise in the summer months, which is peak vacation time for most of us. And thieves know the best time to strike is when your home is vacant.

Here are some steps you can take to tighten security before you hit the road.

• Tell a neighbor your travel plans. Ask them to help keep an eye on your property and alert you of any suspicious activity.
• Lock all your windows and doors. Don’t forget about doors leading to the garage or second-story windows.
• Have mail and newspaper delivery stopped. A stack of mail and newspapers or garbage cans left at the curb are signs that nobody's home. You can temporarily stop delivery by contacting your newspaper carrier and the United States Post Office. And recruit a neighbor to bring in the garbage bins.
• Hire someone to help you keep up on yard work. An overgrown lawn or unshoveled walkway is a dead giveaway that no one's at home.
• Make sure any yard tools are put away. A ladder, rakes, and even patio furniture can all be used as tools to gain entry to your home.
• Don't post your travel plans on social media —if a burglar spots your post, it can turn your home into a target.

Some security systems let you stop and start professional monitoring without any contract or penalties. Find out if your home security system lets you turn on 24/7 monitoring while you're on vacation. That way you'll have someone keeping an eye on your house the whole time you're away.

Research coronavirus trends and restrictions

Travel can increase your risk of getting infected or spreading COVID-19 to others. Don't let the coronavirus ruin your getaway.

Take these steps before you leave to minimize your risk during vacation.

• Check coronavirus trends. Find out if coronavirus infections are spreading both where you're traveling from and at your destination. This can help you decide what risk you may pose to others and the risk they may pose to you.
• Research coronavirus restrictions. See if the city, county, or state where you're going has any restrictions on visitors. In addition to smart practices like social distancing and wearing a mask or other face covering, some places require visitors from COVID-19 hotspots to self-isolate for up to 10 days.
• Get tested. If you're visiting people who are at high risk for serious illness, or if you're not fully vaccinated, the CDC recommends a COVID-19 test one to three days before you travel. 
• Stock up on essentials. Make sure you have plenty of hand sanitizer and face masks. We recommend carrying a ziplock or other reusable bag where you can easily store and retrieve face coverings, sanitizing wipes, and hand sanitizer. This way, if you have to take off your mask, you won't lay it on a surface or throw it in a pocket or bag. It also makes it easier to sanitize your hands without touching everything in your bag.

Travel safety for the whole family

People have different travel needs, depending on things like age or ability. Make sure everyone who's traveling with you is safe and comfortable with these family safety travel tips.

Travel safety tips for kids and babies

• Bring a car seat. Whether you're driving or flying, youngsters that require a car seat need to have one during vacation. If you're flying and have a lot of stops, it might make sense to invest in a lightweight car seat that's easy to move from plane to plane. And make sure your car seat is FAA approved.
• Pack sanitizing wipes. Wipes make it easy to disinfect anything your child touches (including themselves) when you're on the go. Wipe down chairs, tables, airplane trays, and toys—especially if you have a little one that likes to stick everything in their mouth.
• Wash their hands. Whenever you have the chance, hit the sink. Wipes and hand sanitizer are great in a pinch, but nothing beats washing their hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
• Make masks fun.  Children over 2 years-old should wear a cloth face covering in public. To make this feel like less of a chore, get your kiddos some special masks for the trip. You can get masks with fun patterns, bright colors, or even find some emblazoned with their favorite characters.
• Social distance. Do what you can to keep your kids at least six feet away from others who are not in your immediate family. This can be especially crucial if you're visiting someone who's at high-risk for COVID-19 complications.
• Consider a GPS tracker . It doesn't take a pandemic to make us panic if we lose sight of a child in an unfamiliar or crowded place . Make things easier on your blood pressure and safer for your little one with a kids GPS tracker that lets you keep an eye on that tiny wanderer no matter where they go.

Travel safety tips for seniors

• Assess risk. You don't want a road trip or plane ride to end in illness. Because age can make the symptoms and complications of COVID-19 more critical, assess your health and the general health of each person you're traveling with or visiting. If there are any signs of illness, it's best to reconsider your travel plans.
• Wear sturdy shoes. Falls are always a threat , so stay steady on your feet, whether you're sight-seeing or rushing to your gate at the airport. Sacrifice fashion for safety with reliable tennis shoes or other supportive footwear that gives your body the balance and bounce it needs.
• Social distance. Make sure that to stay at least six feet away from older family and friends you see during your travels. If you're reuniting with folks you haven't seen in months, it's tempting to hug or plant a kiss on a loved one's cheek. But those momentary greetings can result in infection. Get creative with air hugs, elbow bumps, and other safe ways to show your love.
• Air it out.  It's fun to huddle around the dining table or share a family puzzle, but if you're seeing some people for the first time, it's best to stick to the outdoors. Have a picnic, go for a walk, or set up some lawn chairs for fresh air social distancing.
• Keep it small. The more people you interact with (especially in higher-risk settings like in the airport, a store, or in someone's home), the higher your chances of being exposed to the coronavirus. Try to get together in small groups—10 or fewer is best—regardless of state or city guidelines that may approve larger gatherings.
• Consider a medical alert device. If you have a medical condition that puts you at risk for a fall, fainting, or any condition that could leave you unable to call for help, a medical alert pendant can be a lifesaver. It also makes it easier for someone to access your medical records if you need help when you're far from home. If you already have a medical alert device, talk to your provider before you leave to make sure it will work when you're traveling.

Airports are full of people, all rushing to catch a plane or make a connection. On top of normal airport safety, if you decide to fly right now, you should take precautions to limit the spread of COVID-19.

Here are some travel tips to help you safely navigate the airport both during the pandemic and any time you fly:

• Watch your bags. You need to keep a close eye on your luggage at all times, even once you board the plane.
• Team up.  If you’re traveling alone, try to find someone in line to befriend. This is someone who could watch your luggage while at the counter or going through security.
• Protect your laptop.  When going through security, put your laptop on the x-ray belt last. This way, your laptop will come out after your carryon luggage and hopefully about the time you are cleared. You don’t want your laptop in the open for too long.
• Sanitize. Carry hand sanitizer or disinfecting wipes to wipe down your hands, bags, laptop, and phone after going through security. If you're cleaning your hands with hand sanitizer, be sure to use a generous amount and rub it into your hands for at least 20 seconds.
• Wash your hands. If you have time, stop at the nearest bathroom to wash up in soap and water—that's the best way to stop the coronavirus from spreading.
• Wear a comfortable mask. Both in the airport and during your flight, you need to wear a face covering. This will likely be the longest stretch you've had to wear a mask (unless you're an essential worker), so pack one that fits well and is comfortable. Fidgeting or adjusting it constantly defeats the purpose of wearing the mask.
• Store your carry-on nearby. On the airplane, if you don’t put your luggage under the seat in front of you, put it in the overhead bin across the aisle from you. You’ll be able keep an eye on your bag during the flight to ensure nobody is opening your luggage.
• Wipe things down. When you get to your seat, wipe down the seat, the safety belt buckle, the tray, and anything else that gets touched (especially if you're traveling with little ones).
• Try to limit contact. Airlines are no longer booking flights for social distancing, so chances are you'll be seated next to, behind, or in front of someone else. If possible, request a window or middle seat. We think the window is best because you won't have someone climbing over you or rubbing elbows when they head down the aisle to the bathroom.
• Don't be shy. If you see an empty row or end up next to someone who's sneezing or coughing a lot, ask if you can move to a different seat. This is no time to hesitate. It's perfectly acceptable for you to look out for your own health.

If you decide to skip the airplane and hit the open road instead, read our tips for a safe road trip during the pandemic.

While on vacation

You’ve successfully navigated the airport and now you’ve landed safety at your destination. Don’t relax on safety just yet. Whether at a theme park or at a fancy resort, there are a few safety precautions (on top of washing your hands and social distancing) that you can take to make sure you're as safe as possible.

• Stay off social media. Don’t tip criminals off by sharing too much information on your social networks. Refrain from posting photos, status updates, or “checking in” while on vacation. Even if you have the highest security settings on Facebook and Twitter, your personal information could still be seen by unwanted eyes.
• Tell friends and family at home your itinerary. It’s a good idea to tell family and friends about your plans. Always let someone know when you’re expected to be back and what route you’re planning to take.
• Go contactless. Whenever possible, choose contactless options to check into your room, get meals delivered, or purchase tickets if you're going to any events or venues.
• Keep cash and credit cards in separate places. Never carry your credit cards, cash, and passport at the same time. You’ll want to keep some cash in your wallet, and then stash the rest in a pocket or money pouch. If you have a safe in your hotel room, leave the majority of your cash there and only bring what you’ll need for the day.
• Make a copy of your passport. You’ll want to make two copies of your passport. Leave one copy at home with a trusted friend or family member and take another copy with you. When you go out sightseeing, take the copy with you and leave the original in a hotel safe until you are ready to travel again.
• Do a security sweep of your hotel room. Always keep your hotel door locked and never answer it for someone you don’t know. If you can, try to get a room near the front desk or the elevator.
• Do a sanitizing sweep of your hotel room. Even though hotels are stepping up their cleaning routines during the pandemic, you may want to roll up your sleeves and do some extra disinfecting. 
• Keep your mask on. During your vacation activities, it's important to keep up the habit of donning a face covering in crowded or indoor settings—even if it's just down the hall to the ice machine. On second thought, don't even use the communal ice machine.

You can never be too careful, especially when it comes to traveling. Make sure things are safe at home and while you are traveling by taking the necessary precautions.

Related Pages on SafeWise

• The Ultimate Guide to Preparing Your Home before Vacation
• Holiday Travel Tips
• How to Travel Safely With Your Kids on Vacation
• How to Find Pet Care While You’re On Vacation
• Tips for Traveling Safely With Your Pet
• How to Protect Yourself from Nosey Neighbors
• 5 Tips for Securing Your Vacation Home
• Best Home Security Systems

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10 Holiday Travel Safety Tips

by Michelle Pratt | Nov 12, 2023 | Travel | 0 comments

The holidays are just around the corner, and we’ll all be doing a lot more traveling. In fact, the Bureau of Transportation Statistics estimates that long-distance trips increase by 24% – 54% during Thanksgiving and Christmas. This is a wonderful thing in a lot of ways. People are taking breaks, spending time with family, and practicing gratitude. However, with more people on the road and worsening winter weather, the streets and highways become much more dangerous. 

During Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year, traffic injuries and fatalities skyrocket due to distractions , drunk driving, poor weather conditions, and more holiday chaos. If your family is going on a road trip this holiday season, you’ll need safe driving techniques to get everyone safely to their destination. So, today, we’re dedicating this post to holiday travel safety. 

Here are our top holiday travel safety tips: 

Share your travel plans with loved ones.

Before you leave for your family get-together, let your loved ones know your travel plans. Let them know when you’re leaving, the route you’re taking, and when you plan to arrive. That way, they can check in on you regularly and know when to get help if you’re absent. The last thing you want to do is to break down or spin off the road without service and have no way of contacting help!

Avoid sharing your travel plans on social media. 

Though we think it’s great to share your travels with loved ones, don’t post your travel plans on social media. Criminals look for opportunities to break into homes when people are away for the holidays. Advertising you’re away is like an open invitation to those looking to take advantage of you being out of the house for a long period of time. To ensure you arrive home safely with all your belongings in your house, share your holiday adventures after the trip. 

Get a full inspection of your vehicle.

Before hitting the road on a long trip, it’s always smart to get a full inspection on your vehicle. This is one of our top holiday safety tips! Many mechanic shops do inspections for free (with the hope you’ll use them for any repairs you may need), so shop around and schedule a time to get your car looked at. 

Even though this can be time-consuming and potentially expensive, it’s well worth it! Remember, you don’t want to find out you have an oil leak or a bad battery on the side of the road. Find out beforehand, so you can get everything fixed up. This will give you peace of mind while heading to your holiday party! 

Pack an emergency kit. 

We always recommend having an emergency kit in your car, but you should definitely bulk up that kit when you go on a road trip. Here’s a full list of family road trip essentials , but keep in mind the specific needs of your trip. You’ll need a first aid kit , cold weather essentials, basic car repair tools , and maybe potty gear . Make a full list, and check it twice! A few key items would be hand sanitizer , something to charge your cell phones, winter gear , band-aids , tire inflator, de-icer, blankets, and plenty more you can find in our winter road trip essentials list . 

Leave early and prepare for setbacks.

Don’t rush. Feeling behind and racing to your destination will only increase your risk of danger. Leave early and expect setbacks of every kind. Whether it’s uncooperative kids or a road closure, you need to have plan Bs for everything. Choose alternate routes, pack extra entertainment tools, choose frequent stops, and relax. You’ll get there when you get there. 

Keep a close eye on the weather. 

Weather can change quickly. Review the forecast multiple times during the week and even the day of your trip. If it’s even a little questionable, stay home. Don’t risk it! Icy roads, poor visibility, and frigid weather can all be huge safety concerns when driving—especially with children. 

Stop every two hours. 

Babies and kids are simply not meant to sit in car seats for long periods of time. With infants, it can be a safety concern to have them in that posture for more than two hours (yes, even if they’re sleeping in the car seat ). Plan on stopping every couple of hours to let everyone stretch, use the bathroom, and get comfortable again. Here’s more on how to plan road trip stops . 

Double-check everyone’s car seats. 

If you haven’t checked things like car seat fit and recline in a while, get that manual out and see if everyone is sitting where and how they should be. After you determine whether or not your car seat needs adjustment, give it a good (and safe) cleaning as well. (Here’s how to clean your car seat.)  We also recommend you take a look at these common car seat mistakes and ensure you’re not a victim of any of them. A properly utilized car seat is essential to a safe road trip. 

Rethink your in-vehicle entertainment.

Part of planning a road trip with kids is figuring out ways of entertaining various age groups for hours at a time. However, when you choose toys, games, and entertainment systems, ensure they’re not projectile risks. In a car crash , small, heavy objects in the car become like missiles ping-ponging around your vehicle. Avoid anything hard-sides or sharp and keep all your bags strapped down. For safe ways to entertain your kids in the car, check out these posts:

• Best Car Seat Toys
• How to Keep Toddlers Entertained in the Car
• Free Car Games for Kids
• Car Activities for Kids
• Are Car Snacks for Toddlers Safe?

Practice safe driving skills.

It’s probably been a while since you’ve had driver’s education. However, safe driving skills are just as important as ever. To stay safe this holiday, refresh on all of your safe driving techniques. Avoid distractions , practice defensive driving , don’t drive drowsy , and say no to drunk driving. This will allow you to stay alert identify safety hazards and avoid creating any hazards yourself. Additionally, if driving in the winter, take a look at our winter road trip safety tips and recall how to drive in icy conditions. 

Have a safe holiday with these travel safety tips!

Driving during the holidays comes with a lot of risk. It’s important to take plenty of precautions to keep your family safe and get them to their destination. These tips will help you avoid major problems and will give you peace of mind on your trip! You can read our road trip tips here , or, if you’re flying this year, read our airplane travel advice ! 

If you liked this post, remember we post more car seat and vehicle safety information daily on the blog and on Instagram . Here at Safe in the Seat, we’re all about equipping parents with trusted and accessible car seats and vehicle facts that keep everyone safe in their seats.

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Stay Safe on the Road as You Travel for Thanksgiving

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Millions of people will travel over the Thanksgiving holiday. The American Red Cross has steps to help you stay safe.

Nearly 49 million people are expected to take to the highways to spend the Thanksgiving holiday with family and friends* — making it one of the busiest times of the year for road traffic.

If you’re planning to travel by car, try to avoid the peak travel times and follow these American Red Cross tips to help keep you safe:

Make sure your car is in good condition for a road trip.

Pack an emergency preparedness kit, supplies and a first aid kit in your vehicle.

Share travel plans with a family member or friend.

Check the weather before departing and along your route. Plan for travel around any storms that may be coming.

Be well rested and alert.

Buckle up, slow down and don’t drive impaired.

Follow the rules of the road and use caution in work zones.

Give your full attention to the road. Avoid distractions such as cell phones.

Make frequent stops. During long trips, rotate drivers. If you’re too tired to drive, stop and get some rest.

If you have car trouble, pull off the road as far as possible.

If winter weather threatens and you become stuck in the snow, these tips are for you:

Stay with the car. Do not try to walk to safety.

Tie a brightly colored cloth (preferably red) to the antenna for rescuers to see.

Start the car and use the heater for about 10 minutes every hour. Keep the exhaust pipe clear so fumes won't back up in the car.

Leave the overhead light on when the engine is running to help rescuers see the vehicle.

Keep one window, away from the blowing wind, slightly open to let in fresh air.

Carry an emergency preparedness kit in the trunk.

Keep your car's gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing.

PLANES, TRAINS Almost six million people* will take a plane or train to get to where they are spending their holiday. If you’re one of them:

Remember that everything you touch has to be touched by someone else — other passengers, luggage handlers, etc. Handle your own belongings as much as possible.

Wash your hands often with soap and water.

It’s flu season. If you’ve been sick or been in contact with someone who is sick, consider postponing your trip. You could be contagious for a week before symptoms appear.

Carry hand sanitizer and anti-bacterial wipes with you. You can use them to wash your hands or wipe down surfaces such as armrests.

Bring your own pillows and blankets — they can act as a shield against the seat itself.

Avoid touching your face or eyes. If you have to cough or sneeze, do so into a tissue or your sleeve.

Bonus tip: Download the Red Cross Emergency app for safety tips and customizable weather alerts for where you and your loved ones live, and areas where you are traveling.

* According to AAA

About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org , or follow us on social media.

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Your Survival Guide to Safe and Healthy Travel

Before You Go

Take these steps to prepare for your travels aboard and anticipate issues that might arise.

Check your destination for country-specific health risks and safety concerns . You should also know your health status before you make travel plans. When you are sick, you can spread diseases to others. Postpone your travel and stay home when you are sick.

Make an appointment  with your health care provider to get destination-specific vaccines, medicines, and advice at least a month before you leave. Discuss your itinerary and any planned activities with your provider so that he or she can make customized recommendations to ensure a healthy and safe journey.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all of your routine vaccines,  including measles-mumps-rubella (MMR). Measles and other infectious diseases can spread quickly in a large group of unvaccinated people.

Plan for unexpected health and travel issues. Find out if your health insurance covers medical care abroad—many plans don’t! Make sure you have a plan to  get care overseas , in case you need it. Consider buying travel insurance that covers health care and emergency evacuation, especially if you will be traveling to remote areas.

Prepare for emergencies. Leave copies of important travel documents (e.g. itinerary, contact information, credit cards, passport, proof of school enrollment) with someone at home, in case you lose them during travel. Make sure someone at home knows how to reach you in an emergency and carry your emergency contacts with you at all times.

Enroll with the Department of State’s  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  (STEP) . Monitor travel warnings for your destination. Enrolling also ensures that the US Department of State knows where you are if you have serious legal, medical, or financial difficulties while traveling. In the event of an emergency at home, STEP can also help friends and family contact you.

Pack smart. Prepare a  travel health kit  with items you may need, especially those that are difficult to find on your trip.

• Fill your travel health kit with your prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines (enough to last your whole trip, plus a little extra), a first aid kit, insect repellent , sunscreen (SPF15 or higher), aloe, alcohol-based hand sanitizer, water disinfection tablets, and your health insurance card.
• Please visit the Traveling Abroad with Medicine for more information.

During Your Trip

Choose safe transportation. Always wear a seat belt, and children should ride in car seats. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among healthy travelers. Be alert when crossing the street, especially in countries where people drive on the left side of the road. Find out other steps you can take to stay safe on the roads.

Avoid bug bites. Use insect repellent and take other steps to avoid bug bites. Bugs, including mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and flies, can spread diseases such as malaria, yellow fever, Zika, dengue, chikungunya, and Lyme. These bugs are typically more active during warm weather.

If you or a travel companion gets an injury or sickness that can’t be helped with basic first aid or an over-the-counter medicine, seek medical attention right away. Visit  Getting Health Care During Travel  to learn how to connect with a doctor or medical services during your trip.

Choose safe food and drink. Contaminated food or drinks can cause travelers’ diarrhea and other diseases and disrupt your travel. Travelers to low or middle income destinations are especially at risk. Generally, foods served hot are usually safe to eat as well as dry and packaged foods. Bottled, canned, and hot drinks are usually safe to drink. Learn more about how to choose safer  food and drinks  to prevent getting sick.

Protect yourself from the sun. Apply sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher when traveling. Protecting yourself from the sun isn’t just for tropical beaches—you can get a sunburn even if it’s cloudy or cold. You are at the highest risk for UV exposure when you are traveling during summer months, near the equator, at high altitudes, or between 10 am to 4 pm.

Wash your hands. Regular handwashing is one of the best ways to remove germs, avoid getting sick, and prevent the spread of germs to others. Wash your hands with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol. 

Be safe around animals. Avoid animals , including pets, local farm animals, and wild animals. In addition to the risk of rabies, all animal bites carry a risk of bacterial infection.

Be careful during water activities. Drowning is a major cause of death when traveling. Follow water safety recommendations , which includes swimming, boating and diving, especially in countries where emergency services may not be quickly available.

After Travel

If you traveled and feel sick, particularly if you have a fever, talk to a healthcare provider and tell them about your travel. 

If you need medical care abroad, see Getting Health Care During Travel .

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November 9, 2023

2023 Holiday Safety Guide

Black Friday pricing has started rolling out. Turkey orders and hotel reservations are being made. And it’s almost time to pull the lights out of the attic. The holidays are here for 92% of Americans who plan to celebrate at least once between Thanksgiving and New Year’s, according to a new UL Standards & Engagement study.  

With these celebrations, there is more cooking, shopping, decorating, and traveling — there is also more safety risk. The increase in fires and ER trips during the holidays can be avoided with the right preparation. At ULSE, we’ve been developing safety standards for 120 years that are incorporated into millions of products used or bought for the holidays. Due to their technical and comprehensive nature, standards can be hundreds of pages long, so our team of trained reindeer have condensed the information down to exactly what consumers need to know to keep the season merry, not scary.  

Check out our full set of recommendations in the 2023 Holiday Safety Guide   and help ensure that the only red vehicle that pays you a visit is Santa’s sleigh, not your local first responders.

Deck the Halls — Just Don’t Daisy-Chain the Lights  

Among holiday decorators who display a Christmas tree, 84% say they decorate using an artificial tree, yet more than half (52%) of those respondents said they did not check to see if their tree had a “fire resistant” label.   

Gift Buyers Prioritize Price Over Safety  

For the 83% of gift buyers who plan to purchase an electronic gift powered by rechargeable batteries, it’s important to be aware of lithium-ion battery safety standards that are designed to limit the consequences of thermal runaway. Unfortunately, while there will be lots of rechargeable gifts under the tree, an alarming number of gift buyers have no idea what’s powering their gifts. How many? Check out the full results on page four of our guide.  

The safety considerations are slightly different for children and teens. For the 35% of gift buyers who have a child six years or younger on their lists, standards that strengthen battery enclosures and ultimately prevent the accidental ingestion of coin and button cell batteries can save lives. One of our most recently updated standards, UL 4600, changes the requirements for battery compartments to make it tougher to open accidentally or for button or coin cell batteries to fall out. The Consumer Product Safety Commission just announced the standard as its choice to meet Reese’s Law, named after 18-month-old Reese Hamsmith, who lost her life to accidental battery ingestion in 2020.  

Holiday Cooks Should Prepare Their Kitchens for More Than Meals  

Only 29% of the holiday cooks in ULSE’s study reported testing their smoke alarms monthly, as experts recommend. Nearly one-third (31%) do not have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen area. Further, a majority (52%) do not have a carbon monoxide alarm near the kitchen.  

There’s also no need to go it alone. More than half (55%) of holiday cooks will share the responsibilities with at least one other adult. Invite them to take over the stove if you need to walk away, take a nap, or run away from visiting family.  

Two Risks Travelers Need to Know Before They Go  

A concerning number of flyers admit to putting rechargeable items in checked luggage, including 26% of passengers who said they check their power banks and portable chargers. So if you are flying this holiday season, stop and think before you pack anything rechargeable in your luggage.  

For the 63% of holiday travelers heading over the river and through the wood and opting for a hotel or rental property instead of grandmother’s house, know before you go if your lodging will have a carbon monoxide alarm. There is a strong (and incorrect) assumption of protection, particularly in more upscale hotels, where 67% say they do not worry about exposure because they assume the property has a carbon monoxide alarm installed. The numbers are only slightly lower for economy and mid-scale hotel chains (63%) and for rental property platforms like Airbnb or VRBO (58%). Travelers should know that only 14 states require carbon monoxide alarms in hotels.     ULSE wants you and your family to enjoy an incident-free holiday season. Deck those halls. Make grandma’s stuffing. Find the perfect gift. Fly to loved ones. Here’s to a joyful and safe holiday season!  

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Empowering E-Mobility at NLC 2023

New Study Identifies Holiday Activities That Elevate Safety Risks

UL Standards & Engagement's Aviation Safety Report Featured in The Washington Post

Ul standards & engagement announces net proceeds from ul solutions initial public offering, bridging the gap: standardization for safety and innovation – the 73rd annual ses conference, new report highlights safety risks of lithium-ion batteries in aviation.

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12 Ways to Have a Healthy Holiday Season

November 27, 2019

Brighten the holidays by making your health and safety a priority. Take steps to keep you and your loved ones safe and healthy—and ready to enjoy the holidays.

• Wash hands often to help prevent the spread of germs. It’s flu season. Wash your hands with soap and clean running water for at least 20 seconds.
• Bundle up to stay dry and warm. Wear appropriate outdoor clothing: light, warm layers, gloves, hats, scarves, and waterproof boots.
• Manage stress. Give yourself a break if you feel stressed out, overwhelmed, and out of control. Some of the best ways to manage stress are to find support, connect socially, and get plenty of sleep.
• Don’t drink and drive or let others drink and drive. Whenever anyone drives drunk, they put everyone on the road in danger. Choose not to drink and drive and help others do the same.
• Be smoke-free. Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke. Smokers have greater health risks because of their tobacco use, but nonsmokers also are at risk when exposed to tobacco smoke.
• Fasten seat belts while driving or riding in a motor vehicle. Always buckle your children in the car using a child safety seat, booster seat, or seat belt according to their height, weight, and age. Buckle up every time, no matter how short the trip and encourage passengers to do the same.
• Get exams and screenings. Ask your health care provider what exams you need and when to get them. Update your personal and family history.
• Get your vaccinations. Vaccinations help prevent diseases and save lives. Everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine each year.
• Monitor children. Keep potentially dangerous toys, food, drinks, household items, and other objects out of children’s reach. Protect them from drowning, burns, falls, and other potential accidents.
• Practice fire safety. Most residential fires occur during the winter months, so don’t leave fireplaces, space heaters, food cooking on stoves, or candles unattended. Have an emergency plan and practice it regularly.
• Prepare food safely. Remember these simple steps: Wash hands and surfaces often, avoid cross-contamination, cook foods to proper temperatures and refrigerate foods promptly.
• Eat healthy, stay active. Eat fruits and vegetables which pack nutrients and help lower the risk for certain diseases. Limit your portion sizes and foods high in fat, salt, and sugar. Also, be active for at least 2½ hours a week and help kids and teens be active for at least 1 hour a day.

Be inspired to stay in the spirit of good health! Listen to The 12 Ways to Health Holiday Song or a holiday health podcast .

• Holiday Health and Safety Tips
• Mall Walking this Winter
• Twelve Holiday Health and Safety Tips Podcast (2007) [PODCAST – 3:40 minutes]
• Holiday Food Safety During Pregnancy
• Gather and Share Your Family Health History
• Get Your Flu Vaccine: Stay Healthy This Flu Season!
• Managing Diabetes During the Holidays
• Pregnancy and Flu
• Go Green for the Holidays
• Stay Safe and Healthy in Winter
• Lead Hazards in Some Holiday Toys

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Holiday Travel: How the FAA Gets Your Plane There Safely

Whatever the season, our job is to get you to your destination safely and efficiently. Holiday travel has normally posed challenges from more planes in the skies and frequent bad weather. We continue to see increased demand, more bad weather and increased use of the nation’s airspace. We are continuously working to address these challenges.

Flight cancelled or delayed? Visit DOT's Airline Customer Service Dashboard

What's driving delays?

The FAA's priority is safety, meaning that, sometimes, delays are necessary. The interactive chart below shows data on the top five causes of delays in the National Airspace System (NAS). 

Weather is the leading cause of delays and cancellations, but the FAA’s Command Center works closely with airlines to plan for, and around, expected weather nationwide. Learn more about how the FAA navigates around bad weather . 

Are cancellations getting better or worse?

Flight cancellations are trending lower in 2023  than in previous years, but a canceled flight still has the potential to throw off your travel plans. The Department of Transportation (DOT) has launched an interactive Customer Service Dashboard to provide travelers with up-to-date airline customer service policies on controllable cancellations and delays to ensure customers can easily access information when problems arise. 

The data visualization below shows cancellations by month for 2014-2024.

Download monthly cancellation data for 2014-2024  here .

Traveling Over Spring Break

Spring Break is here, and you can expect to see more crowded airports in the coming days. You might not be a pilot or an air traffic controller, but you can take steps to make your trip as smooth as possible. Knowing what to expect during busier than usual travel times can save time and stress. The interactive graphic below shows forecasted flights surrounding Spring Break.

From tracking the status of your airport to showing you how to pack safely, the FAA has a host of resources to help travelers plan ahead.  Remember, the FAA has a zero-tolerance policy against unruly airline passengers in the wake of recent, troubling incidents.

FAA Efforts to Keep Air Travel Safe, Smooth All Year Round

The FAA is committed to keeping travel safe and smooth. That's why we've taken several steps to achieve that.

Urging Airlines to Fly Larger Aircraft Into NYC Airports

Increased flexibility on slot usage requirements at the three New York City airports, showing more seats.

Optimizing Airspace Around Commercial Space Launch Sites

Due to increased space activity, the FAA took steps to optimize and equitably manage airspace around launch sites.

Activating 169 New, More Direct Routes Along the East Coast

The routes are more direct, saving passengers time, airlines fuel and increasing safety.

Investigating Unruly Passenger Incidents

The FAA has a zero-tolerance policy on unruly passenger behavior, but incidents are steadily rising.

Know Before You Fly

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Blog / October 27, 2020

5 November Toolbox Topic Ideas

There are a number of things in November to focus on for toolbox talk topics to help keep your employees safe. We often look to the calendar for inspiration but November doesn’t offer a lot of topics for safety talks from the national days alone. But the holiday calendar does remind us that Thanksgiving is in November and that one holiday provides a host of safety topics to cover.

Thanksgiving

One of the first things you think about when you think about Thanksgiving is food—from turkey and all the fixings to pie, there usually isn’t a shortage of delicious food when celebrating the Thanksgiving holiday. But when it comes to food safety, your mind should also go to the possibility of food poisoning. Talking about food safety with workers can help everyone stay safe this holiday season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that approximately 1 in 6 Americans (48 million people) get food poisoning each year, and half of these incidents occur around the holidays. There are a number of factors that can contribute to holiday foodborne illness, from rushing to prepare a meal for a large group to fatigue, which is almost always a factor around the holidays. Not to mention that some cooks may simply not be aware of the food preparation risk factors that can contribute to people becoming sick. You may also want to think about the food that’s in the shared refrigerator at work—some of the condiments or leftovers may now be considered a science experiment, and it’s time to get rid of them. When preparing your toolbox talk, you can revisit the list of tips from September’s National Food Safety Education Month topic .

Another unfortunate issue that comes with the holidays is fire. According to the NFPA, Thanksgiving is the leading day for home cooking fires. Most home cooking fires involve the kitchen stove so it’s a good idea to review some cooking safety tips in your toolbox talk, even if they seem like common sense. If someone questions what home fires have to do with workplace safety talks, be sure to mention the impact that an employee who experiences a home fire would have on downtime, production and absence rate.

One final thought about Thanksgiving safety is travel. People often travel when they have time off of work—even if a family visit isn’t happening, a sight-seeing drive can also affect safety. Be sure to incorporate some travel safety tips into your toolbox talk that includes the dangers of inclement weather and the need to ensure the vehicle is roadworthy and topped up with washer fluid, oil, test wipers, check the radiator, cooling system and tire pressure (all things that often strand motorists on the side of the road). It’s a good idea to make sure a roadside emergency kit is stocked and ready in the event that it’s needed. Another great toolbox talk idea would be to discuss the emergency kit—these are often forgotten about once they’re tucked safely into the trunk (if there’s one in the vehicle at all).

Drowsy Driving Prevention Week

One thing that impacts workers regardless of their position or workplace is fatigue. Drowsy Driving Prevention Week is from November 1–8, 2020. This is a prevalent, serious issue for every industry. The National Sleep Foundation determined that half of U.S. drivers admit to regularly driving while feeling drowsy. Although being drowsy doesn’t sound all that serious, it is the same as driving impaired—but without the same social stigma that impaired driving has. 

According to the NSC , being awake for more than 20 hours is the same as being drunk. Even if driving isn’t a function of a person’s job, they will still often drive to and from work. The NSC research also concluded that you are three times more likely to be in a car crash when you are fatigued. Educating employees on drowsy driving prevention will ensure they arrive safely to work and return home the same way. Fatigue impairs both mental and physical performance by reducing alertness, attentiveness, reaction time and coordination. 

By intervening with tips to avoid fatigue, you’ll notice improvements in areas other than just driving. The risk of many types of incidents is higher when people are tired and have slower reaction times and reduced attention. For some easy-to-share toolbox tips, check out our free resources on fatigue .

Tie One on for Safety

A campaign by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), Tie One on for Safety details impaired driving safety education. This initiative began in 1986 and is one of MADD’s largest awareness campaigns that starts November 1st and lasts throughout the holiday season. A red ribbon is placed on a visible location on a vehicle to symbolize the driver’s pledge to drive safe and sober. It also serves as a good reminder for other drivers who see it. For this November toolbox talk, use impactful stories from MADD to reach employees about the devastating impact of impaired driving. The number of drunk driving crashes increases significantly over the holidays—conducting a safety talk on this topic could potentially save the life of one of your employees or their loved ones. Don’t forget SafeStart’s critical error reduction technique to look at others for the patterns that increase the risk of injury while driving. You could also relate this toolbox talk back to your drowsy driving toolbox talk since both issues could produce the same devastating results.  

Disease prevention

Since flu activity peaks between December and February, November is a good time to think about preventing the spread of communicable diseases. A toolbox talk outlining everyday preventive actions could be more powerful than you think. A few years ago SafeStart published a post on What to Do About the Flu in the Workplace , where you will find some great prevention tips for your talk. If you used August’s suggested topic of National Immunization Awareness Month, a lot of the work for your talk may already be done for you. Don’t worry about the repeat in topic, as repetition is a great way to emphasize the importance of your message. If your company offers an immunization clinic, now is a good time to educate workers on the benefit of getting their flu vaccine and encourage them to attend your clinic. The recent pandemic may have left you with some items like hand-washing posters that can help reinforce your toolbox talk.

Carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide poisoning is more common during the winter months as people increase their use of heating devices. Known as the silent killer, carbon monoxide is hard to detect because you can’t see it or smell it. Any living or work area that is heated with a gas or wood-burning appliance that is not properly maintained (or is in a space that is not properly ventilated) is susceptible to carbon monoxide poisoning. A good toolbox talk on the subject will detail the early symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, like nausea, headaches, dizziness, a sore throat/cough, and abdominal pain. It’s important to note that these early-indicator symptoms should not be ignored. A quick test to see if someone with symptoms is experiencing carbon monoxide poisoning is to get them outside into the fresh air—symptoms should begin to disappear once outside.

Whether it’s for 24/7 safety or a specific workplace problem, these November toolbox talk topics could be life-saving. And if you need tips (let’s say 15 of them) to improve your toolbox talks, check out our free guide .

Toolbox Talk Guide

Better Toolbox Talks and Safety Meetings

With this free toolbox talk guide, you’ll learn how to engage employees with safety meetings that work.

Tagged Carbon Monoxide , Disease Prevention , Drowsy Driving , Food Poisoning , November , Safety Topics , Thanksgiving , Toolbox Guide , Toolbox Talk Topics , Toolbox Talks