Dear University of Maryland Community,
The University of Maryland Police Department would like to take this time and inform you of some holiday travel and safety tips. When traveling always check with the local news channel, news sites, and/or radio stations for current and up to date information regarding travel and weather advisories. Take necessary precautions when encountering rain, freezing rain and/or snow during your travels.
For those that will be traveling beginning tomorrow, the National Weather Service is forecasting a chance of rain, snow, and sleet before noon on November 26th, 2013, with the possibility of heavy rain at times and a high near 42 degrees. There is little or no snow accumulation expected. Rain is likely to continue into Wednesday, with only slight chances of rain on Wednesday night. While this area is not expected to receive snow, for those who will be traveling north, chance of snow will increase. Keep in mind with the expected heavy rain fall, traffic delays will occur. Please plan accordingly when traveling.
Below are travel and safety tips:
For students/faculty/staff who are leaving their residence for the break:
- Double check all windows and doors are locked and secured before you leave.
- Take valuable items such as jewelry, money, portable electronic devices, etc., with you to avoid potential theft.
- If leaving your vehicle for long period of time, remove items of value, secure windows and doors, and if you have one engage your alarm system.
- Ask a friend or a trusted neighbor to keep an eye on your residence while you are away.
- Store away and secure any loose items that might be in the yard, for example, a ladder, tools, etc.
- Set your alarm to your security system.
- Set your lights on a timer.
- If you have a garden hose connected to the outside faucet, disconnect it.
For students/faculty/staff who are traveling by car:
- Know before you go. Check on the local road and highway conditions.
- Know where you are going. Keep a map or a GPS in your vehicle.
- Inform your family and/or friends if your travel plans change.
- Keep your cell phone fully charged.
- Make sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas.
- Give yourself plenty of time.
- Slow down during wet weather driving. Give yourself enough room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you.
- Don't use cruise control in wet weather driving.
- Bridges and overpasses freeze first.
- Follow emergency personnel directions.
- Don't drive distracted!
For students/faculty/staff who are traveling by air:
- Keep your cell phone fully charged.
- Check with your airline before you leave your residence during inclement weather.
- Inform your family and/or friends if your travel plans change.
- Give yourself enough time to get to the airport and plenty of time to get through airport security.
- Don't leave your luggage unattended.
- If you see something, say something.