Safe Homecoming Tips

Mudik, the annual homecoming journey to one's hometown to visit family and relatives, is a tradition for many, typically observed leading up to Lebaran, especially during Eid al-Fitr. The Ministry of Transportation estimates that the number of travelers this year will increase by 6.99% from last year. In 2013, approximately 18.5 million people participated in the homecoming, with 3,675 accidents reported, including injuries and fatalities. Here are some safety tips for your homecoming journey: -Utilize free homecoming programs organized by various companies -Pay attention to the condition of the transportation you use -Be mindful of road infrastructure -Pray before departing -Make use of homecoming posts (rest areas/checkpoints) if you are a private vehicle user -At rest stops, do light exercises; relaxation movements, especially for your legs, hands, and neck; and urinate to prevent urinary tract infections caused by holding it in -Consume herbal remedies to prevent health issues during the homecoming -Drink plenty of water, as your body loses a lot of fluids during daytime travel -Prepare snacks and fruits from home; avoid buying from roadside vendors as their hygiene quality may not be guaranteed -Carry basic medicines and specific medications if you suffer from chronic diseases such as diabetes, asthma, hypertension, etc. -For those who are fasting, try to travel after breaking your fast -Ensure the driver is in prime condition -Bring comfortable gear to maintain the driver's physical condition, ensuring they can stay focused and comfortable -Obey traffic rules -Share the road with other users -Do not rush while driving, as it can lead to emotional distress and stress, reducing concentration and quickly fatiguing your physical condition -Manage your driving pattern: a maximum of 10 hours of driving per day, with a 30-minute break every 2 hours of travel. Source: Republika, Tuesday, July 22, 2014