Summer is coming with all the difficulties hot weather can bring to truckers on the road. Heat should be considered as serious as low temperatures during the winter months. When it is hot outdoors, it is reasonable to take care of yourself and your truck before hitting the road. The main risk during summer driving for both a driver and a truck is overheating. Overheating leads to failures, breakdowns and injuries. We would like to share summer driving safety tips on how to prepare for trucking in high temperatures.
What should you do to prepare your truck for a summer road:
- Check all the fluids and their level. Make sure you have enough engine oil, antifreeze, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, windscreen washer fluid. Do not remove the cap or any part of the pressurized system before it is cooled. Hot liquids which are under pressure can cause severe injuries when released.
- Control tire pressure. It has to be not too high and not too low. Check it regularly. Too high or too low pressure in tires could lead to a blowout or even ignition.
- Inspect hoses and belts. When it’s hot, belts tend to stretch more, so if you find a loose belt, it’s important to fix it. If you have any cracks on hoses it can lead to explosion due to pressure that is higher than in normal temperature.
- Don’t forget to check if there is enough freon in your air conditioner.
- Check the state of your batteries and the level of electrolyte. Hot weather is more damaging to your batteries than low temperature, so weak batteries can go out of order.
- Use a reflective sunscreen surface inside your truck when parking. It will let you feel more comfortable in your seat and not to burn your fingers by the steering wheel.
- Use a special anti-insect window washing fluid. Make sure that you have a clean windshield after passing through the swarm of flying insects. It’s about visibility on the road and your safety.
What can you do for yourself to prepare to drive in summer?
- Make sure you have enough water with you. Both for drinking and for any other cases. You may need it to cool off, or to help somebody to put out the fire.
- Don’t forget to use sun protection. Wear a cap, use sunscreen cream, protect your open skin areas when you are outdoors.
- Wear polarized sunglasses with high UV protection. They will help you to control the road regardless of any glares on the road which could be sudden and intensive.
When planning your trip, don’t forget to check the weather and choose the route without any construction areas.
