Finally, the summer season is upon us! In Britain, we are busy preparing to enjoy temperatures up to 30°C over the next few days (and hopefully weeks). Many will already be arranging picnics, beach trips, and mini-holidays to make the most of the sun. And those planning to travel in a car, especially if driving in a heatwave, will need to take precautions to make sure they’re comfortable and safe, however hot it gets.
These precautions are vital as the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) states that May was the start of the ‘dangerous driving season‘. Research from the IIHS reveals that the largest number of fatalities on the road occurs in the warmer months of the year. July and August are the worst for cases.
Check Your Car
You don’t need to be a mechanic to make a few checks before you set off. This is to ensure your car is suitably prepared for travelling in hot weather.
Top the tank up, as cars use more fuel; the heavier the traffic, the more fuel they consume, which typically increases in hot weather.
Check the oil level before you leave to avoid damaging the engine, overheating, and even breaking down.
Check the battery, ensuring the brackets are secured and the cables are tight. The summer heat can drain the life from your battery 33 per cent faster than the colder seasons.
Check your tyres before setting off and at any stop you make along the way. Driving on hot roads can melt tyre rubber and impact the tread, so ensure you’ve got a spare.
Top up the coolant to keep the engine running at the correct temperature.
Check the clutch. Busy summer roads necessitate more clutch control, so check that yours is in working order to avoid stalling this summer.
Stay Hydrated
Take cold drinks, and then take more. A cool bag is your friend. Upping your fluid intake during hot weather seems obvious, but it can be easily forgotten on busy days. You might need to stop at a couple more service stations than you’d like. However, it’s worth it for your well-being.
Use Sun Cream
Always make sure you’ve applied sun cream before setting off on long, sunny drives. Preventing sunburn, which can make you feel drowsy, weak and even faint, is essential. Adding a high-quality sun cream to your emergency car kit can also prove invaluable in case of a breakdown in a spot without any shade.
Take Breaks
We know the sedative effects of heat, but a sleepy driver is a dangerous driver. Make sure you’re well-rested before undertaking a long drive. Should you feel you’re flagging, take a break! Having a drink, stretching your legs, and using the loo – activity outside of the car will refresh you. It will also get you feeling more alert on the road.
https://eatsleeplovetravel.com/2024/06/26/stay-safe-expert-tips-for-driving-in-a-heatwave/
