Hey, fellow truckers! With the dog days of summer coming in hotter than a fresh pot of truck stop coffee, it’s time for truck drivers to buckle up and prepare for the seasonal challenges coming our way. So, grab your favorite pair of shades and a tumbler of ice-cold water; let’s dig into some sizzling summer trucking tips to help you truck safely and keep you and your big rig stay cool as you cruise along that scorching hot asphalt road.
Mind Your Tires:
Summer’s high temps can quickly turn the sizzling sun into your tires’ worst enemy. Extreme heat can increase tire pressure, resulting in blowouts – yikes! Ensure you regularly check your tire pressure and that they’re not overinflated. Also, keep an eye out for signs of wear and tear.
Keep Those Brakes Cool:
Excessive heat can lead to brake fade, reducing your truck’s stopping power. To prevent this, ensure your brake fluid is topped off, and your cooling systems are working correctly. If your brakes start feeling spongy, make a pit stop and let them cool off.
Stay Fluid:
Your truck’s fluids are its lifeblood, especially in summer. Coolant, oil, and transmission fluid must be topped off and in a ship-shape to prevent your engine from becoming a roadside barbecue. Regularly check your fluid levels and keep them filled. Remember, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.
Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate:
Now let’s shift gears and talk about the most critical component of your truck – you! The summer heat can be a silent enemy, sneaking up on you and causing dehydration. Keep a good supply of water in your cab and sip regularly, even if you’re not thirsty. This isn’t just about beating the heat; it’s about keeping your focus sharp on the road. At its best, dehydration can lead to headaches, lack of focus and lethargy. At its worst, it can lead to a high heart rate, kidney stones, or even loss of consciousness.
Stay Sun-Smart:
Even inside the cab, the sun can be relentless. Wear a good-quality pair of UV-protected sunglasses to keep the glare down, and don’t forget to apply sunblock with an SPF of at least 30, especially on your face and driving arm. Sun damage can hit truckers hard because it’s harder to notice at first, but over time it can cause your skin to age faster or, even worse, lead to skin cancer. Not to mention, nobody wants to finish a long haul looking like they’ve arm-wrestled a lobster.
These tips for beating the heat while trucking in the summer should help keep you and your big rig running smoothly. If you need some advice on handling summertime traffic during your next drive, look at our trucking safety tips for summertime traffic blog.
Now, let’s roll up our sleeves, slap on that sunscreen, and handle the summer like our rig: with confidence, care, and always a sense of adventure. Happy trucking — over and out!
