Beat The Heat - On The Road In Warm Weather

The temperatures have peaked, the pavement is hot, and the smell of sweat and BBQ fills the air. It's Summer!

While it's nice to see the sun and spend time with family on summer vacations, those who have to work in summer months face heat hazards that can make professional driving a pain. Taking precautions to not only protect yourself, but also your vehicle, is important to your survival during these sweltering summer days.

The most important component of these scenarios is, of course, you, the driver. Top Tip #1: Stay Hydrated. This really isn't just a summer months kind of tip either - staying hydrated while driving is always important as it helps avoid fatigue, dehydration, and a whole host of other issues caused by not having enough fluids in your system. Bring water bottles with you in your cab and pack hydrating fruits such as watermelon or strawberries to snack on. This focus on driver well-being is a key aspect of preparing heavy-duty trucks for summer.

Additionally, pay special attention to the signs of dehydration, such as dizziness, disorientation, and extreme sleepiness. If you experience any of these symptoms, pull over immediately and re-hydrate and rest to avoid any potential accidents.

When it comes to your rig, there are a few key parts to check that can be adversely affected by heat.

Battery

Heat is a notorious drain on batteries, so make sure you're not heading out on a long trip with an old, half-empty battery; otherwise, you probably won't make it back. The proactive care discussed here is crucial for maintaining a roadworthy fleet during the summer.

Fluids

All of your fluids deserve your attention before any trip, but in hot weather, your coolant should be checked frequently. Heat evaporates liquids, so also check your motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, etc. Make sure to also check when you arrive at your destination - remember, it's always better to be too careful than not careful enough. Regular fluid checks are a crucial part of staying ahead of seasonal vehicle maintenance.

Tires

Checking your tires is another 'anytime you leave' kind of check, but in high-heat weather, it's even more critical. Temperature fluctuations, especially sudden ones, can be hard on your tire pressure. Prevent blowouts and potential accidents by regularly inspecting and maintaining your tires. While summer heat is the primary focus here, the differences in procedures for high heat versus preparing a fleet for the winter season are stark.

Taking these precautions when driving in the heat can prevent accidents and damage to your vehicle. Taking care of yourself by staying hydrated, checking the necessary mechanics and fluids, and ensuring your tires are in good shape are the basic steps you need to take when planning to hit the road during the summer, to ensure safe driving during high heat.