Hauling large items like TVs, Christmas trees this holiday season? How to do it safely

Eshaan Sarup, Arizona Republic
·3 min read

The Maricopa Association of Governments advised Arizona residents to safely secure their load when traveling this holiday season.

According to AAA, there will be a 3 percent increase in holiday travel this year. MAG said this means that more drivers will be hauling large items like TVs and Christmas trees, creating a greater risk of crashes and injuries.

“Unsecured loads pose serious safety risks for the motoring public as well as the troopers who respond to clear objects out of the roadway,” said Sgt. Eric Andrews of the Arizona Department of Public Safety. “We don’t want a merry season to turn into tragedy. By taking a few minutes to properly secure your load, you can help ensure everyone gets home safely this holiday season."

According to MAG, there were more than 800 crashes related to unsecured loads last year. The group offered Arizona drivers the following tips for safe travel this holiday season:

  • Call 9-1-1 to report road hazards: Your tip to first responders can help prevent hazards this season. If you notice a likely road hazard, report it to protect other travelers.

  • Tie it down: When you transport your tree, it must be strapped down. This is easier when the branches are first tied down around the tree. Once the tree is held tightly together, drivers should securely strap the tree directly to their vehicles with rope, bungee cords, or netting. The tree, just like any large load, should be able to withstand winds up to 70 miles per hour while on the freeway. Often, twine available at Christmas tree lots is not strong enough to be safe. Large loads like appliances and packages should also be securely strapped down.

  • Cover it up: Drivers should cover the tree with a sturdy tarp, canvas, or netting to ensure smaller clippings and branches do not fly off while traveling. It's important to remember to secure the tarp to the vehicle so it does not become litter debris. You can use tarps and nets to cover other large or loose loads as well.

  • Point it in the right direction: To avoid added headwind, which may loosen the branches, drivers should arrange the tree so that the stump end faces the front of the vehicle. Trees that extend past the vehicle’s bumper should have a reflective or red flag tied to the end to alert other drivers.

  • Double check: Loads can shift, and tie-downs may become loose during transit. Remember to check the load frequently to make sure the top, back, and sides are all secured throughout the trip. In addition to strong winds, the load should be able to withstand sudden braking and hitting bumps while on the road.

  • Ask yourself: "Is there any chance of debris falling or blowing out of my vehicle?" "Would I feel safe if I was driving behind my vehicle?" "What would happen to my load if I had to brake suddenly or if I hit a bump?"

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Here's how to safely haul large items during the holiday season