DURING the summer months many people pack up the car and head out on the open road for long motorway journeys. But how many people do more than check their tyres and oil before they set off?

According to Mark Gumbrell at the Retirement Insurance Advisory Service (RIAS), we should be doing a lot more to keep our family safe and happy on long journeys.

RIAS suggests that there are a number of things you should bear in mind for those long summer holiday journeys.

• Check the oil and coolant levels, before you set off and also before your return journey.

• Have a look at the radiator to make sure there are no leaks or damage.

• Check your tyres for damage or wear.

• If you have air-conditioning, make sure it is working.

• Ensure that you have enough fuel - always fill up before the tank gets too low.

• If you are travelling on the continent, legally you need to carry an emergency triangle and make sure you put adjusters on your lights so that you don’t dazzle other drivers at night.

• Dress in something comfortable.

• Keep a pair of sunglasses handy.

• Let fresh air circulate throughout the vehicle regularly.

• Take regular breaks to avoid fatigue and drink a caffeine-based drink.

• Never leave a child or animal in the car unattended.

These days most long journeys will involve spending some or most of the trip on a motorway. Again there are a few things that are worth remembering:

• Make sure you concentrate.

• Remember to use your mirrors frequently.

• Take extra care when approaching intersections where traffic is joining the motorway.

• Obey motorway signals - these warn of dangers ahead.

• Keep your distance.