SHREVEPORT, La. (KTAL/KMSS) – Labor Day weekend is right around the corner, and AAA says you should prepare for busy roads and airports.
Officials expect record numbers of travelers as people make the most of the holiday. The Labor Day travel surge is ramping up not just on the highways but also in the air.
“I would anticipate it still just being a jam-packed weekend as we head towards that, that Labor Day weekend,” said Don Redman, with AAA “Flying as well, looking at numbers of those who are flying rather than taking the car. And of course, looking at other modes of transportation. According to AAA if you’re hitting the road, drivers should do a full car check, starting with their tires.
“So make sure your tires in good shape. Make sure they’re properly inflated with the psi, the pounds per square inch, is written on the inside of the driver’s door,” said Redman.
AAA says in this heat, low tread, low pressure, forgetting your spare tire or even your car battery could leave you stranded.
“Make sure your fluids are properly filled, your coolant, of course. Check your battery. We’re still, you know, in the heat of summer, and the batteries are one of the first things to go.” said Redman
Redman says the top three reasons AAA responds to stranded drivers are flats, dead batteries, and locked doors.
“Because when we look at the three top reasons that AAA is called out for roadside service, it’s a flat tire, and it’s a dead battery, and it’s a lockout,” said Redman. “You travel on the road, we strongly encourage people as well to have some ice down water, or something to keep you cool.”
“It’s been really a record number. So we’re expecting a very busy holiday,” said Redman.
Redman says travelers should still plan ahead for congestion.
AAA also encourages packing cold water in case you break down before help arrives.