It's that time of year for fun, celebration and cheer, but it can also be a time for fighting traffic, bad weather and some over drinking. Schmidt, Sethi & Akmajian would like to offer you a few precautions and safety tips to help keep you protected when you go out on the road this holiday season.

1. If you are planning on traveling in your car to family for the holidays, get your car inspected for any possible mechanical problem and have the belts, hoses, wipers, fluids, brakes and tires all checked. This will help so you don't get stranded and miss the fun.

2. Bring a safety kit with you. Holiday travel often includes winter weather, snow, rain, and ice that can lead to accidents, car troubles, delays and even road closures. Be prepared by having your own kit that has blankets, flashlight with batteries, first-aid kit, jumper cables, radio, and snacks that are nonperishable, bottled water, an ice scrapper and some warm gloves.

3. Begin your trip early, plan ahead so you can drive slow and not be rushing. Give yourself some extra time because a speeding ticket will definitely make you late and will give you less holiday spending money.

4. If you are driving to a area with snow, get snow tires or chains. If you are not use to driving in snow like so many of us in parts of Arizona, not having proper tires can put you in a dangerous position quickly that can not only ruin your holiday but could also get you injured from a possible car accident.

5. Don't text and drive or take phone calls that can distract you from watching the road. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety drivers that use hand-held devices are four times more likely to be involved in serious car accidents that include injuries and fatalities. If you have to communicate with family then use a hands-free headset.

6. If you have to use your navigator or GPS have the passenger do it. Keep your attention on the road.

7. If you are going to a party and you plan on drinking, take a cab, rent a limo or have a non-drinking friend drive.

8. If you do drive and find that you have consumed too much holiday cheer AAA (Automobile Association of America) has a Tipsy Tow Service. It offers a one-way free ride/tow home to drivers and one passenger who have consumed alcohol and are in need of a safe ride home. This service is available from December 24^thfrom 6 p.m. until Sunday, December 25^th 6 a.m. and also on New Year's Eve. The service is not just for triple A members and anyone can call on behalf of the driver.

The number to call is: 1-800-AAA-HELP.

Schmidt, Sethi & Akmajian hopes that these Holiday Safety Tips will be of help to you and we would like to wish you all a safe and happy holiday season.