Hari Raya Aidilfitri is officially around the corner, and throngs of Malaysians will inevitably make the pilgrimage back home to celebrate the festive season with friends and family. The first thing that springs to mind when driving back to their respective towns is the immense traffic heading in all directions of the compass.
Unfortunately, the grime truth is that, traffic accidents and fatalities are indeed higher come the festive season. In light of this, Ford Malaysia is urging everyone to drive safe, with a few safety reminder tips to go along with it.
Firstly, prepare your vehicle for the trip. Have the car serviced and checked out to ensure things such as, engine oil, radiator coolant, brakes and other various vitals are up to par. Secondly, plan your trip thoroughly. Consult the map, draw out the best route and remember that the shortest route, isnt necessarily the fastest route. Avoid over-exerting yourself. Plan naps along the way. Better safe than sorry.
Thirdly, pack wisely. Always ensure that a first aid kit is kept handy in the glove box. Keeping a portable fire extinguisher in the car may sound a tad bit extreme, but rest assured prevention is definitely better than cure. Make sure the kids are stocked up on toys to keep them entertained. Pack your favourite music while you’re at it. Fourth, divide the labour. Some are capable drivers, others make good navigators – sadly some just can’t read a map even if they tried.
Last but not least, keep calm. Frustrations rise and tempers flare, but keep close to mind that Hari Raya is a time of forgiveness and reconciliation. Read back to the third pointer, pack your favourite music CDs or fill up your USB flash drive with your favourite tunes. It’ll make the journey more relaxing.
However, good driving habits aren’t just reserved for the festive season. Ford invites the public to participate in the ‘Future of Safety with Ford’ tour. The 45 minute safety tour will be held on 6 and 7 August, at every half an hour from 10am at the 1Utama Shopping Centre.
IMAGE GALLERY
