Monday, September 6^th,   millions of American workers will celebrate Labor Day. Wrapping up summer fun, and beginning school, this will be the last holiday until Thanksgiving.  Labor Day became a federal holiday in the United States in 1894, and is always observed the first Monday in September. 

Labor Day is also known as the second deadliest holiday of the year, with Thanksgiving coming in at #1.  So, while you are busy making plans for that three-day weekend, please give some thought to keeping yourself and your loved ones safe.  You know that your friendly State Troopers are going to be out in full-force, and their number one priority is seeing that you travel safely.  You may think that they are just out to get you, but as long as you drive at speeds designated by the law, and have your seat belt buckled, they won’t bother you.  One way to guarantee that is to head for your destination in plenty of time, allowing you to arrive on time.  Be sure to have your cell phone handy, but please don’t text and drive.  One of your passengers can answer your phone, or you can retrieve your messages once you have stopped driving. 

AAA expects 34.4 million Americans to travel this holiday weekend, from Thursday September 2^nd, through Monday, September 6^th.   Most will be going at least 50 miles from home, with the average miles travelled around 635.  If you are one of those travelers, be sure you watch for the other driver (drive defensively), motorcycles and bicycles.  Everyone should show the same respect on the roads that they expect to receive.  Driving and drinking just don’t mix, and those Driving Under the Influence (alcohol, drugs), will be arrested.  The same goes for BUI, pertaining to someone driving a boat under the influence; they will be subject to arrest, too. 

If you are going on an outing, such as fishing, camping, hiking, etc., be sure to take along your sunscreen, first aid kit, sunglasses, insect repellent, and protective gear.  Because the weather is still warm, you’ll want to keep all perishable food items cold, and not leave them out of the ice chest for more than one hour.  Taking along a NOAA weather radio would be a good plan, too, as this time of the year, there may be weather changes that would affect your outdoor activities.

 Wherever the roads take you, obey the law and stay safe.  Everyone traveling expects to return to work next Tuesday.  Do your part to see that they do.  

P.S.  Let’s hope that we have more American workers to honor next year; there are thousands who NEED jobs desperately.  Be thankful for the one you have.