Here are some travel tips for Arizonans flying, driving for 4th of July
Jul 3, 2018, 5:01 AM
(AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
(AP Photo/Brynn Anderson)
PHOENIX — Whether you are traveling by plane or by car, officials are advising residents to be prepared if they are traveling in or out of Arizona for the Fourth of July holiday.
Heather Lissner with Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport told KTAR News 92.3 FM that travelers who are flying within the United States should arrive at the airport two hours before their flight, while travelers who are flying outside of the country are advised to arrive three hours before.
“It’s always a good idea for travelers to give themselves extra time,” Lissner said.
“Of course, we recommend travelers to check their flight status with their airline before coming to the airport and travelers can check out security checkpoint wait times as they are on their way to the airport.”
And travelers who are parking in the garages in Terminals 3 or 4 can save money by downloading a coupon at SkyHarbor.com. The coupon allows for parking at $20 a day, a 26 percent savings.
Sky Harbor also offers a prepaid discount parking program that is available in all terminal garages.
As for travelers who are planning to take to the road for the Fourth of July holiday, one official with the Arizona Department of Transportation is advising drivers to ensure that they are prepared for a long road trip — and that they take steps to prevent starting wildfires.
Doug Pacey with the department told KTAR News 92.3 FM that drivers should remember to not throw their cigarettes out of their window and they should make sure any chains on their car are not dragging, as both could start a fire.
Roadside wildfires could cause road closures, which would make holiday travel much more difficult.
Pacey also told drivers to pack extra water and snacks and make sure their car is in good condition before hitting the road.
The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is the deadliest for drivers, according to the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety, with Independence Day being known as the deadliest day on the road.
Drivers under the age of 20 are also three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash.
Robin Binkley with Allstate in Prescott said drivers can avoid becoming a statistic by simply putting down their cell phones while behind the wheel.
“Eliminating distractions, which includes those electronic devices, ensures that we’re going to be fully prepared to stop,” she said.
“Also allowing plenty of time to reach your destination is a big factor for safety, and being aware of road conditions as well.”
KTAR News 92.3 FM’s Ali Vetnar and Nailea Leon contributed to this report.
