National Road Trip Day History

National Road Trip Day became a holiday in 2019 because of Pilot Flying J. Pilot Flying J is currently the largest travel center operator in North America. They chose the last Monday in May as the day for the holiday because it marks the start of summer in North America and offers most people a long weekend. Travel stories are woven into America’s very fabric and it makes sense to observe a day that celebrates that part of our country’s history.

National Road Trip Day Origins

There’s a reason why “The Great American Road Trip” is a catchphrase. The U.S. is the one country where road trips count as a holiday in themselves. Whether it’s to pay tribute to fallen heroes by visiting war memorials across the country, or an excuse to get out of town and have a change of scenery; road trips are loved by Americans throughout the country.

The first recorded road trip across the U.S. began in 1903 with a bet. Someone bet Horatio Nelson Jackson (a physician and automobile pioneer) that he could not travel from San Francisco to New York City in less than 90 days. Accompanied by mechanic Sewall K. Crocker, and a dog named Bud, they set off in a 20-horsepower Winston to prove them wrong. Despite numerous mishaps, Jackson and Crocker completed the trip in 63 days.

Alaska Driver Safety Tips

If you are planning to explore Alaska on National Road Trip Day or anytime this summer, keep these driver safety tips in mind:

• Plan Ahead – Alaskan Road trips require planning. Plot your course. Consider construction, fuel and snack stops before taking off.
• Service Your Vehicle – Vehicle maintenance is a vital part of any successful road trip. Therefore, ensuring your vehicle’s oil has been changed recently and its tires are rotated are key. In addition, make sure your wipers are in good working order and your wiper fluid is full. Check to make sure all your vehicle’s lights and signals are working. Check the condition of your brake pads. Make sure your vehicle registration is current.
• Take your time and enjoy National Road Trip Day – There’s plenty of time to get to your Alaska destination.

After all, the goal of any road trip through Alaska- including those on National Road Trip Day – is that all Alaskans arrive at the destination not only happily, but safely as well.

Whether taking a road trip, spending the day with family and friends, or commemorating quietly at home, we at Johnson Law wish Alaska a safe and happy Memorial Day Weekend celebration. If you are seriously injured in a car accident, boat accident, or any accident caused by another person, please contact an experienced Alaska Personal Injury Attorney. 

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Info Source: National Today

Photo Source: Bearfoot Theory

Those enjoying a barbecue… never leave the grill unattended and use long-handled tools. Those planning water fun must supervise children at all times and ensure everyone wears a life jacket. Finally, be mindful of traffic and designate a sober driver if alcohol is included in your weekend celebration. Johnson Law also reminds Alaskans of the important general guidelines for travel and outdoor activities with a more detailed look at Alaska Memorial Day Observance safety tips below:

Memorial Day Celebrations In The Sun:

• Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply frequently, especially after swimming or sweating. 
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially when spending time outdoors. 
• Protective Gear: Wear a hat and sunglasses to protect your eyes and skin from the sun’s harmful rays. 
• Seek Shade: Find shaded areas during the hottest parts of the day to help prevent heat stress. 

Grilling Safety:

• Never Leave Unattended: Never leave a lit or hot grill unattended. 
• Especially Important – Supervise Children and Pets: Keep them away from the grill area. 
• Use Long-Handled Tools: Employ grilling tools with long handles to prevent burns. 
• Properly Extinguish: Ensure the grill is completely cool and the propane is turned off after use. 

Alaska Memorial Day Celebrations In The Water:

• Supervise Children: Never leave children unattended near water. 
• Swimming with a Buddy: Always swim with a companion. 
• Life Jackets: Use U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets or PFDs when boating or swimming. 
• Swim in Designated Areas: Swim in areas supervised by lifeguards. 

Driving Safety:

• Designated Driver: If you plan to drink alcohol, designate a sober driver for Alaska Memorial Day Celebrations.
• Follow Traffic Rules: Observe speed limits, use seatbelts, and avoid distractions like cell phones.
• Be Aware of Traffic: Be mindful of traffic congestion and potential delays, especially during peak travel times.
• Prepare for Emergencies: Carry a disaster supplies kit in your car. 

Other Important Tips For Alaska Memorial Day Observance:

• Fireworks Safety: Use extreme caution when handling fireworks and keep spectators at a safe distance. 
• Heat Stress: Be aware of the signs of heat stress and seek help if needed. 
• Pets: Keep pets safe from heat and ensure they have access to fresh water. 

Johnson Law wish you and yours safe and happy Alaska Memorial Day Celebrations. If you are seriously injured in a car accident, boat accident, or any accident caused by another person, please contact an experienced Alaska Personal Injury Attorney. 

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Sources: Alaska Wildland Fire Information; Red Cross of Alaska; Alaska Kids Don’t Float Program

Image Source: Anchorage Daily News (Bill Roth)

For a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day Weekend In Alaska, prioritize wildfire prevention, be mindful of wildlife, and follow general safety guidelines for travel and outdoor activities.

A Few Memorial Weekend In Alaska Safety Tips:

Wildfire Prevention:

• Check for restrictions: Contact your local burn permit hotline for weather advisories and restrictions.
• Never leave fires unattended: Even in burn barrels, fires can easily escape.
• Choose safe locations: Build fires in established fire rings, gravel pits, or sand below the high-tide line.
• Clear surrounding areas: Remove vegetation around campfires to reduce fire risk during your Memorial Day Weekend In Alaska celebrations.
• Keep fires small: Manageable fires are easier to control.
• Have tools and water ready: Be prepared to extinguish fires quickly.
• Extinguish fires completely: Drown them with water, stir the coals and ashes, and ensure they are cold to the touch before leaving.
• Dispose of ashes properly: Use fireproof containers and avoid dumping them in the woods.
• Respect fireworks restrictions: Use fireworks in safe areas if permitted by law.
• Drive ATVs responsibly: Stay on trails to avoid hot exhaust coming into contact with dry grasses. 

Wildlife Safety:

• Be bear aware: Respect bears and learn proper behavior to avoid conflicts.
• Stay alert: Be watchful for signs of bear activity during Memorial Weekend In Alaska hiking adventures.
• Carry bear spray: Have bear spray readily available and know how to use it.
• Make noise: When hiking, camping, or traveling, make noise to alert bears to your presence.
• Store food properly: Keep food and scented items in bear-resistant containers or hang them from a tree.
• Do not approach bears: If you encounter a bear, remain calm, make yourself look large, and slowly back away.
• Know what to do in a bear attack: Learn the proper steps to take if a bear attacks you. 

Driving Safety:

• Designated Driver: If you plan to drink alcohol, designate a sober driver.
• Follow Traffic Rules: Observe speed limits, use seatbelts, and avoid distractions like cell phones.
• Be Aware of Traffic: Be mindful of traffic congestion and potential delays, especially during peak travel times during Memorial Day Weekend In Alaska.
• Prepare for Emergencies: Carry a disaster supplies kit in your car. 

Other Important Safety Tips For Memorial Day Weekend In Alaska:

• Fireworks Safety: Use extreme caution when handling fireworks and keep spectators at a safe distance for a safer Memorial Day Weekend In Alaska. 
• Heat Stress: Be aware of the signs of heat stress and seek help if needed. 
• Pets: Keep pets safe from heat and ensure they have access to fresh water. 

Johnson Law sincerely wishes you and yours a safe Memorial Day Weekend In Alaska. If you are seriously injured in a car accident, boat accident, or any accident caused by another person, please contact an experienced Alaska Personal Injury Attorney. 

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Sources: Alaska Wildland Fire Information; Red Cross of Alaska; Alaska Fish And Game

Image Source: MAT-SU Valley