Getting out on the road in the heat of the summer can be quite the journey. Between the sweltering sun and the bustling crowds, it can be difficult to maneuver through to your destination while staying cool—mentally and physically.
It's important for any driver to prepare as much as possible for the road ahead. Before you head out on a lengthy summer road trip, stay a step ahead of what you need by making a simple list. Be sure to include any supplies you may need, as well as these four simple tips for avoiding the chaos that the summer season brings to the roads.
Stay Hydrated
This may be an obvious tip, but people constantly underestimate how much water they really need to drink to stay hydrated and healthy. With excessive heat and strong sunshine, some people may need to drink even more in the summer - especially if the sweat often.
Stay ahead of your thirst by always having an ample amount of water on hand. You may wish to buy a large reusable bottle that will hold all your water for the day - or you may keep a few extra small bottles with you. No matter how you remind yourself, just be sure that you are drinking more than 64 oz of water a day.
Wear Sun Protection
When you're driving most of the day, you may be exposed to the sun from morning all the way until it sets. Some vehicle windows and windshields can provide protection from UV rays, but it's best if you take additional steps to protect yourself.
Apply sunscreen on your face and body. Wear long sleeves and protective sunglasses. Dress in layers in case you get too hot. Follow these easy procedures and you'll be able to endlessly enjoy the sunshine without worrying about your health.
Keep an Eye on Your Brakes
You may not even think that heat would have a connection to the strength of your brakes, but it certainly does. Excessive heat can wear away at your brakes' friction. Once they have absorbed too much heat, they won't be able to function anymore.
Take advantage of any time you have to check on the status of your brakes. It will save you time and keep you safe from any issues down the road.
Properly Inflate Your Tires
Summer is blowout season. Closely observe your tires and make sure that they are inflated at the proper level. Under-inflated tires have a higher chance of blowing out. Most semi-truck and trailer tires are best inflated at 75 or 80 psi. Don't let it exceed 110 psi—this could put too much pressure on your tires and cause damage in the long-run.
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