HANOVER, Md. (November 13, 2026) — As the Thanksgiving Holiday approaches and Marylanders prepare to visit loved ones, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM) is reminding travelers of simple steps that can make every trip safer—whether driving, flying, or taking other modes of transportation. “Plan Ahead. Stay Alert. Look Out for One Another” serves as the core message for this year’s 9th Annual Maryland Travel Safety Week, which takes place November 16 through the 22.
“Travel plans can change quickly, particularly when weather, traffic, or other unexpected circumstances come into play,” said MDEM Secretary Russ Strickland. “Taking a few minutes to prepare before leaving can make a meaningful difference. By reminding Marylanders to plan ahead, stay alert, and look out for one another we hope to empower travelers so they can make informed decisions along the way and arrive safely at their destinations.”
During Maryland Travel Safety Week, MDEM encourages residents to make safety part of every journey by checking conditions before departing, preparing for unexpected delays, staying alert along the way, and looking out for others.
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Know Before You Go
- Check weather forecasts and road conditions before departing and throughout your trip.
- Monitor traffic, construction, and potential travel delays.
- Allow extra time to reach your destination, particularly during periods of heavy holiday travel.
- Share your travel plans and expected arrival time with someone you trust.
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Prepare for the Unexpected
- Check your vehicle’s tires, brakes, fluid levels, lights, and windshield wipers before a long drive.
- Keep an emergency supply kit in your vehicle with essentials such as water, nonperishable food, a flashlight, a first aid kit, and phone charging equipment.
- Carry appropriate seasonal supplies, including blankets, warm clothing, and other items you may need if stranded.
- Make sure your phone is charged and consider having a backup charging option.
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Stay Alert Along the Way
- Always wear your seat belt and ensure all passengers are properly secured.
- Never drive impaired, distracted, or when fatigued.
- Follow posted speed limits and adjust your speed to weather and road conditions.
- Avoid unnecessary risks. If conditions become unsafe, find a safe place to stop and wait.
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Share the Road and Protect One Another
- Give pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists plenty of room.
- Maintain a safe following distance and remain alert in congested areas.
- Follow Maryland’s Move Over Law when approaching stopped emergency vehicles, tow trucks, and other qualifying vehicles displaying warning signals.
- Be mindful of roadside workers and first responders.
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Stay Informed Wherever You’re Headed
- Monitor official weather forecasts and travel advisories, whether traveling by car, train, plane, or other transportation.
- Know how to receive emergency alerts at your destination, not just at home.
- Sign up for local alerts by visiting mdready.maryland.gov/be-informed/Pages/local-emergency-info.aspx.
- Follow instructions from transportation personnel and local emergency officials.
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Plan for a Safe Return
- Check weather and travel conditions before beginning your return trip.
- Take breaks during long journeys and avoid driving when tired.
- Allow additional travel time and be prepared to adjust plans when conditions change.
Travel safety also means remaining aware of your surroundings. If you encounter an emergency, call 911. Report roadway hazards to the appropriate authorities and follow guidance from local officials and first responders. You can read through a variety of travel and safety tips here.
About Maryland Travel Safety Week
Now in its 9th year, Maryland Travel Safety Week is an annual public awareness effort led by MDEM and supported by the Maryland State Police, Maryland Department of Transportation, and local emergency management partners. The campaign encourages residents and visitors alike to prepare before traveling, remain alert, and prioritize safety so that every Marylander can celebrate the holidays safely. You can read through a variety of travel and safety tips here.
For additional emergency preparedness information and resources, visit MdReady.Maryland.gov. Residents can also follow MDEM’s social media feeds X (Twitter) (@MDMEMA), Facebook (facebook.com/MDMEMA), LinkedIn (linkedin.com/company/maryland-department-of-emergency-management), Threads (threads.net/@mdmema), and Bluesky (@mdmema.bsky.social).
