Always check your travel trailer lights before you hit the road. If they don’t work, one possible cause is dirt or oxidation on the umbilical cord plug and/or receptacle contact points.

Make it a habit to clean the contacts with a wire brush or sandpaper. A Dremel tool with right bit will make the job easier (be sure the lights are off when you do this, otherwise it could blow a fuse).

As people get their travel trailers and boats ready for a trip to a campground or lake, Michigan Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land reminds people to ensure their trailers are towed safely.

“Make sure your vacation memories are about summer fun, and not roadside repairs or worse,” Land said. “Take a few extra minutes before you leave to look over your trailer so you and your loved ones reach your destination safely. When you’re on the road, use extra caution and allow more stopping time and distance between vehicles.”