Adhering to essential safety guidelines while navigating in sweltering weather conditions
As the mercury rises, it's crucial to be mindful of the unique challenges high temperatures pose for drivers. Here are some essential safety tips, as advised by State Company "Avtodor."
Before You Hit the Road
- **Check Your Fluids**: Ensure your engine coolant, oil, and windshield washer fluid levels are sufficient. High temperatures can cause these fluids to evaporate or degrade more quickly. - **Inspect Your Tires**: Hot pavement increases tire pressure. Check and adjust to the manufacturer’s recommended level, and examine tires for wear and damage. - **Test Your Battery**: Heat can accelerate battery fluid loss and reduce lifespan. Have your battery tested before long trips. - **Carry Extra Water**: Keep bottled water in the car for both passengers and the radiator in case of emergency.
While You're Driving
- **Stay Hydrated**: Drink water regularly to prevent dehydration, which can impair reaction time and judgment. - **Avoid Overheating**: Watch the temperature gauge. If it rises above normal, turn off the air conditioning and turn on the heater to help cool the engine. If the engine overheats, pull over safely and let it cool down. - **Use Sun Protection**: Apply sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and use sunshades to protect yourself and passengers from UV exposure. - **Take Regular Breaks**: High temperatures can cause fatigue. Stop every 2 hours or 200 km to rest, stretch, and cool down. - **Never Leave Children or Pets in the Car**: Even with windows cracked, temperatures inside a parked car can become life-threatening within minutes.
In Case of Emergency
- **Carry a Roadside Emergency Kit**: Include water, a first aid kit, a flashlight, jumper cables, and a reflective warning triangle. - **Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion**: Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, headache, and confusion. Stop driving if you feel unwell. - **Plan Your Route**: Avoid peak heat hours if possible, and be aware of shaded rest stops.
Protecting Your Vehicle
- **Park in the Shade**: When possible, park under cover to reduce interior temperatures and protect the car’s electronics. - **Roll Down Windows Before Using AC**: Let hot air escape before turning on the air conditioning for more efficient cooling.
Remember: High temperatures increase the risk of vehicle breakdown and health emergencies. Preparation and caution are essential for safe summer driving.
In case of an emergency on Avtodor’s highways, drivers should call the emergency commission service at number *2323.
Stay safe and enjoy your travels!
- To complement your safe driving practices, consider adopting an "outdoor-living" lifestyle in your home and garden to further enhance your travel experience. Install a portable hammock or a shaded seating area to unwind after a long day of driving.
- For those who love exploring scenic landscapes and natural reserves during travel, incorporate 'lifestyle' choices that promote 'eco-friendly' practices, such as carrying reusable water bottles and bags to reduce waste.
- After a fulfilling journey, continue the spirit of discovery in your home by showcasing travel souvenirs and memories, transforming your dwelling into a 'home-and-garden' that reflects your adventurous lifestyle.
