When you fly on the commercial airlines of the United States, you are flying on the safest, most efficient form of transportation. When the rare accident does occur, more and more people survive due to advances in aircraft manufacturing and design, air traffic control technology, emergency planning, and cabin safety.

Aviation manufacturers, air carriers, and the Federal Aviation Administration are proud of their contributions to aviation's impressive safety record. You, the air traveler, play a very important role in aviation safety.

You can take responsibility for your own safety.

. Listen To The Safety Briefing . Keep Your Seat Belt Fastened . Obey Carry-On Baggage Restrictions . Wear Sensible Clothing

Fly Smart. Be responsible for your safety and make your safe trip even safer.

LISTEN TO THE SAFETY BRIEFING

Fly Smart travelers always listen to the safety briefing because they know that every aircraft is different. The following are some tips to ensure that you are familiar with the aircraft you are on:

. Take the passenger safety card out of the seat pocket and follow along while you listen to the safety briefing. Always take a moment to review the card before subsequent takeoffs and landings. . One of the best things you can do to be prepared is to mentally plan the actions you would need to take in an emergency. As part of this plan, count seat rows between you and at least two exits. . If you have any questions about the safety procedures, ask the flight attendant. Flight attendants are professionals; they know about the safety procedures of the aircraft.

FASTEN YOUR SEAT BELT

Of all the safety features aboard the aircraft, one of the most important is right at your fingertips, "Your Seat Belt."

In a recent study, nearly 300 turbulence-related serious injuries to passengers were reported over a 10-year period. None of the injured had their seat belts fastened. To prevent turbulence-related injuries, Fly Smart travelers should always:

. Keep their seat belt fastened at all times. . Make sure their seat belt is secured snugly and low across the hips.

OBEY CARRY-ON BAGGAGE RESTRICTIONS

Fly Smart travelers should be aware of what they bring on board.

. Most airlines restrict carry-on baggage to two pieces per passenger. . Carry-on bags must be small enough to fit under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bins. It's a good idea to put the heavier items under the seat. . Carry-on items could become flying projectiles during turbulence. Heavy items and baggage with sharp corners can be hazardous. . Some hazardous materials are restricted. They can be dangerous if carried (or checked) on an aircraft. Following is a partial list of common articles from the home, workplace, or garage which, because of their physical or chemical properties, can pose a danger when transported. . Mace, tear gas, and other irritants . Aerosols containing flammable material (hair spray, deodorant,repellents) . Loaded firearms . Loose ammunition . Gasoline and other flammable materials . Propane, butane cylinders or refills, and lighter refills . Wet-type batteries, e.g., as used in cars . Fireworks and flares . Safety or -strike-anywhere+ matches (in checked baggage) . Paint and paint-related materials (thinners and cleaners) . Corrosive (acids), poisonous, infectious, and radioactive materials

The above list is not all inclusive. There are certain exceptions for personal care, medical needs, and equipment to support physically challenged passengers. There are also provisions for sporting equipment. When in doubt, check with your airline. . In the unlikely event of an emergency evacuation, leave everything behind. WEAR SENSIBLE CLOTHING

For ease of movement and protection in the unlikely event of an evacuation, Fly Smart travelers should follow these guidelines:

. Wear clothes made of natural fabrics such as cotton, wool, denim and leather. They offer the best protection. Synthetics may melt when they are heated.

. Wear clothing that allows freedom of movement. Avoid restrictive clothing.

. Wear low heeled shoes or boots. (Shoes with laces or straps are recommended. Avoid sandals.)

. Arms and legs should be as fully covered as possible. (Long sleeves/pants are recommended.) PASSENGER CHECKLIST

SUGGESTIONS TO MAKE YOUR SAFE TRIP EVEN SAFER

Sensible Clothing

. Shirt - Long sleeved, natural fabrics. . Slacks/pants - Long, natural fabrics. . Shoes - Leather or canvas and low-heeled.

Child Safety Seat

Check with airline for policy on use before arrival at airport and on board the aircraft .

. Safely stow carry-on baggage. . Wear seat belt snug and low across the hips. . Keep your seat belt fastened at all times. . If you take your shoes off, put them on before landing.

Review the passenger safety card before each takeoff and each landing.

. Listen carefully to the safety briefing. . Ask questions if safety information is not clear. . Make a mental plan of the actions you would take in an emergency. . Be familiar with all exits. . Count seat rows between you and at least two exits.

Exit Row Seating

. Listen to the safety briefing and/or read the written instructions for aircraft specifics. . You must be physically capable and willing to perform emergency actions. If not, request another seat. . You must know your responsibilities in the unlikely event of an emergency. . Ask questions if instructions are not clear. . Consider the effects of alcoholic beverages. . In the unlikely event of an emergency, you should be aware of the following.

Evacuation Slides

. Jump feet first into center of slide. . Do not sit down to slide. . Place arms across chest, elbows in, and legs and feet together. . High-heeled shoes can damage slides.

Decompression

. Pull oxygen mask toward you to start oxygen flow. . Put your oxygen mask on as quickly as possible. . Help children and others with their masks.

Flotation Devices

. Know where they are and how to use them. . Life vests (under seat, if available), life rafts, and some seat cushions and evacuation slides can be used as flotation devices.

Evacuating the Aircraft

. Follow instructions of crew member (if possible). . Stay calm and proceed quickly to exit. . Leave all your possessions behind.

Fire or Smoke

Inflight - Use wet paper towel or handkerchief over nose and mouth. - Move away from the source of fire and smoke.

On Ground - Stay low. - Proceed by your predetermined count of seat rows to exit(s) and/or - Follow floor proximity lighting to an exit. - Exit the aircraft. - Leave all your possessions behind.

Outside the Aircraft

. Move away from aircraft, fire, and smoke. . If possible, help those requiring assistance. . Remain alert for emergency vehicles. . Never go back into a burning aircraft.

Fly Smart and Book Your Own Travel at http://www.worldcrowntravel.com/id8.html

About the Author

I have been an outside sales travel agent for five years. I am an Accredited Cruise Counselor and have booked over 15 groups on cruises. I have traveled on 22 cruises and have enjoyed each experience. As a travel agent I travel FREE using Fam's , YOU can do this also at, http://www.worldcrowntravel.com/id5.html Become and Independent Travel Agent.