Summer is right around the corner, and as the weather becomes more appealing, you’re going to want to take advantage of it, get out the house, and travel. But the season is also the time when accident rates increase and we see many people get hurt over preventable situations. So how do you stay safe during summer vacation? Importantly, you should take your time no matter where you go!

Traffic will increase, and with it, so will tempers and aggressive driving. You don’t need to rush anywhere. Avoiding the red light by going through the yellow isn’t going to save you a lot of time. Swerving around the car in front of you and cutting off the person in the adjacent line is more dangerous than efficient. Instead, you should manage your time and plan alternate routes and shortcuts to minimize travel time and avoid the feeling of being late, which usually forces you to hurry. The more careful you are on the road, the more likely you are to avoid getting involved in any car accidents.

You should also be aware of your surroundings in stores, restaurants, bars, and other places of business. Many people will spill their drinks or leave ice packs lying around, while some places have condensation and leaks from air conditioning units. The high foot traffic can make it hard for you to move from place to place, and if you’re not careful, you can easily slip and fall. Always take time to watch where you’re going and avoid slippery areas, and be sure to use handrails and banisters when going down steps and stairs. Summer is also a time when pet owners take their dogs out for long walks and hikes on trails and at the beach. It can be very tempting to go up and pet a dog that is enjoying itself in the sunshine, but this choice can be very dangerous.

Dogs are protective of their owners and if you go up to one without any warning or introduction, you face the risk of being attacked and bitten. It’s always best to check with the dog’s owner and ask permission if you can pet the dog if it’s friendly and sociable. No matter where you are this summer, whether on the freeway trying to travel somewhere, in a restaurant enjoying a meal, or at the beach spending time in the sun, be sure to stay safe.