The summer heat has already been brutal, and we’re just now in July. In our recent safety meeting with drivers, we talked about keeping your body and vehicle safe during the hot summer days.
Whether you’re an over-the-road truck driver or simply driving with your family, this information could save your life. Did you know that 29 percent more deaths happen on the road during the summer months and that more than 9,000 Americans have died from heat-related causes?
Staying healthy in hot weather
The first significant aspect of staying healthy in hot weather is knowledge. Specifically, knowing the difference between heat stroke and heat exhaustion and knowing what to do when the symptoms start hitting.
Heat exhaustion happens first and can include dizziness, fainting, excessive sweating, nausea or vomiting, cool and clammy skin (often pale), and muscle cramps. Make sure to move the person to a cool place and either have them use cold, wet compresses or take a cold shower. Remove tight-fitting clothing and if the person is conscious, sip cool water or something with electrolytes.
If not treated, heat exhaustion can quickly become heatstroke, which is a medical emergency. Signs of heatstroke include (but not limited to!) throbbing headache, lack of sweating, rapid and strong pulse, nausea and vomiting, red and hot dry skin, and loss of consciousness. The first step to managing heat stroke is calling 911. Get the person inside to a cool area and reduce their body temperature with cool compresses. It is essential to not give them fluids.
It’s vital to avoid developing any kind of heat illness. If you start getting hot while driving (it can happen even with air conditioning running, especially if you are getting in and out of your vehicle making deliveries), you need to pull over and find some shade. Make sure you stay hydrated with water or sports drinks. If you’re working, keep management informed of what is happening, and if your condition worsens, do not hesitate to call 911.
Finally, a tip that may sound like it’s about your truck, but it’s about your safety. Keep your gas tank at three-quarters full in case you have a breakdown in a remote area. Having to sit in your car without the engine running (therefore making it possible to run your AC) is a quick recipe for heat-related illness.
Keeping your vehicle safe in hot weather
The most important part of keeping your vehicle safe in any kind of extreme temperatures is keeping it well-maintained. Avoid breakdowns and blowouts by making sure your AC and coolant levels remain topped off, your battery and alternator are both functioning well, and your tire pressure is appropriate for your tires. Underinflated tires and hot pavement are a recipe for a blowout.
Finally, if you work for a company with a fleet, make sure you report any issues to the fleet manager. Helping your employer keep their fleet in working order can protect you as well.