While state officials are warning that holiday traffic will be heavy as Massachusetts residents travel long distances for family turkey dinners, they are also promising to take steps to ensure things go smoothly.

The state Department of Transportation said it is fully staffing tollbooths and keeping tow trucks as well as emergency personnel on hand next Wednesday through Sunday. The department is urging motorists to leave early in the morning or after 8 p.m. if they want to avoid the crowds.