AUSTIN, Texas — As the holiday season approaches, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is urging Texans to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and adopt safety measures to ensure a secure and enjoyable time. The DPS emphasizes that every individual has a role in maintaining the state’s safety.
The DPS has issued several safety tips for holiday travel, including avoiding drinking and driving, eliminating distractions such as mobile devices while driving, and adhering to the “Move Over or Slow Down” law for emergency vehicles and tow trucks. So far in 2025, there have been over 12,375 violations of this law, according to the DPS. Additionally, drivers are reminded to buckle up, slow down in adverse conditions, drive defensively, and use the left lane for passing only.
The DPS also advises against cutting in front of large trucks and recommends storing the Texas Roadside Assistance number, 1-800-525-5555, in your phone. Ensuring vehicle maintenance, securing cargo, and monitoring weather and road conditions are also highlighted as essential safety practices.
For those using fireworks, the DPS recommends using them outdoors in clear areas, keeping water nearby, supervising children, and properly disposing of used fireworks by soaking them in water.
The DPS also calls for increased vigilance against human trafficking, urging Texans to be alert to signs such as individuals appearing under control, lacking awareness of their surroundings, or showing signs of untreated illnesses or inappropriate clothing. The public’s awareness is deemed crucial in combating trafficking and saving lives, stated the DPS.