Spread Cheer Without Sacrificing Safety
The holiday season is here, and for many of us, that means it’s time to show our festive spirit wherever we can—including on our vehicles. It’s always fun to see cars decked out in twinkling lights, reindeer antlers, or even a giant bow. But before you start decorating, it’s important to think about road safety. After all, you’ll be driving through busy streets, highways, or even calling our Salem roadside assistance team if something goes wrong. Let’s go over the best ways to keep your holiday decor secure and safe.
Plan Your Vehicle Decorations Carefully
We need to start by choosing decorations that are made specifically for cars. Not all holiday items will hold up against wind, rain, or snow at highway speeds. Look for lightweight, durable materials that won’t damage your car’s paint or windows. Static clings or magnets are great for the body, and adhesive clips can help with stringing lights around edges.
When we attach anything to our cars, it’s essential to avoid blocking visibility. That means decorations shouldn’t cover mirrors, windows, headlights, or license plates. Safety should always come before style.
Keep Your Lights Secure and Battery-Friendly
If you’re thinking about adding holiday lights to your vehicle, we’ve got some tips. Battery-operated LED lights are a good option because they’re bright, long-lasting, and don’t require wiring into your car’s electrical system. We recommend using zip ties or clips to secure the lights snugly without damaging your car.
It’s also a good idea to turn off the lights when you’re not driving. Not only will this save your battery, but it’ll also help you avoid drawing too much attention while parked, which could make your car a target for theft.
Driving With Decorations
Driving a decorated car comes with a few extra responsibilities. Anything added to the exterior can affect the aerodynamics of the vehicle, so we should avoid placing bulky decorations on the roof or hood. These can create drag or even fly off in heavy wind.
Additionally, let’s remember that our decorations need to stay secure at all times. A loose wreath or antler on the highway is not just inconvenient—it’s a serious hazard to others. Before hitting the road, we always double-check that everything is firmly attached.
Here’s a quick checklist for a safe drive:
- Test your decorations by gently tugging on them.
- Make sure lights are off during daylight hours.
- Check mirrors and windows to ensure full visibility.
- Listen for any flapping or unusual noises while driving.
What To Do If You Run Into Trouble
Despite our best efforts, things can happen. A decoration might come loose, or unexpected weather could cause issues. This is where our Salem roadside assistance service can be a real lifesaver. Whether it’s a flat tire caused by a rogue piece of decor or needing help securing something that’s come loose, it’s good to know help is just a call away.
Our Salem roadside assistance team can also step in if your car battery gets drained from powering lights or other electronic decorations. We’re prepared to handle the challenges of holiday driving so you can stay focused on enjoying the season.
Call Baker & Baker for Salem Roadside Assistance
At Baker & Baker, we’ve seen firsthand how our Salem roadside assistance can make a difference during the holidays. The season brings unique challenges for drivers. From loose decorations on the highway to drained batteries from holiday lights, it’s important to know our Salem roadside assistance service is always available and our Salem roadside assistance team can get you back on the road quickly after a breakdown. We’ve helped countless drivers avoid holiday stress and stay safe while spreading festive cheer.
Let’s stay festive and safe this holiday season!
