Whether your summer involves cheering at soccer games or leaving on family trips, chances are you plan on making the most of the warm weather and time off from work.

However, according to the Canada Safety Council, during the summer months, more Canadians die on the road than any other time of year.

Consider these tips to ensure you don't take a vacation from safe driving practices this year.

Prepare the vehicle. Check the vehicle for worn parts, correct fluid levels, and tire pressure and condition. You can replace or repair many issues, such as installing new wiper blades, at home.

Check the lights. Test all lights and signals to ensure they work properly and are clearly visible. Restore hazy headlights with the 3M Headlight Lens Restoration System to brighten night drives and expand your sight distance.

Be ready. Store a flashlight, first-aid kit and flares somewhere easy to reach during an emergency. Non-perishable food items, sunglasses, maps or a global position system, and a notebook and pen are good to have on-hand.

Make safety a priority. Avoid driving after drinking alcohol and ask all passengers to wear a seat belt. Pack carefully to keep mirrors and windows visible.

Drive defensively. Choose a safe driving speed and leave space between you and the car in front. Although tourists make heavier traffic, stay calm, be courteous, obey traffic signs and signals, and choose an alternate route instead of weaving between lanes.

Stay alert. Get a good sleep before leaving on long trips and keep your mind active on monotonous routes. Also, stopping at rest stops gives you and your engine a break.

Handle the haul. Only pull trailers and boats after ensuring your vehicle is equipped for the haul. Practice driving with the added weight and length to learn new stopping and turning distances.

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For more information:
Jacqui Newell
Public Relations Coordinator
3M Canada
jnewell@mmm.com
519-451-2500 ext. 2564

Angela Leon
Marketing Supervisor
Automotive Aftermarket Division
3M Canada
aleon@mmm.com
519-452-6149