Tips for homebound holiday travelers
JAKARTA (JP): If you are one of the millions heading to your hometown for the holidays there are a few words of advice which may come in handy.
Several officials have predicted that the coming week could be "the most chaotic, delay-prone, and tiring trip home."
"This year's mudik (homebound trip) is definitely going to be a tough one. We've never experienced handling millions of people amassing to travel for three consecutive celebrations at the same time," Minister of Health Achmad Sujudi told The Jakarta Post.
The minister, who is also planning to return to his hometown in Bondowoso in East Java to celebrate Idul Fitri, gave a few tips for a safe journey:
* Bring a lot of mineral water, snacks and food since it is likely be a long journey, sometimes with eight to 10 hours of delays.
* Prepare medicines such as painkillers for headaches, travel sickness pills and required prescribed drugs. Take enough milk supplies and toys for babies.
* Wear cotton shirts that can easily absorb sweat. Do not bring too much luggage. But don't forget a sweater or rain coat because you will be traveling during the rainy season.
* If you drive, do not take any medication and if you become sleepy, pull over and rest a while.
* If you take a train or sea transportation, bring a blanket or small pillow.
* Paramedics, rescue team and ambulances are being posted along with the police and related officials.
"And remember, it's not only you that has to be healthy but also the condition of your vehicle," the minister said.
Minister of Settlement and Regional Infrastructure Erna Witoelar further alerted all commuters to watch for signs of possible floods or landslides.
"All of our officials have been placed on alert. Before leaving, travelers should checked their route safety.
She also reminded commuters to be wary if heavy downpours occur for two days in a row.
"Most floods or landslides take place soon after a period of torrential rain. Thick fog may also take place during this wet season. So if any of these events take place, commuters are advised to look for a safe place and to stop moving," Erna said.
"We cross our fingers and just hope that the rain will not fall as hard as it has been predicted, so we can have a safe trip," she said. (edt)