While you have to prepare for the harshness of winter, preparing for the heat of the summer is something that should not be ignored. Trucking offers reliable income throughout the year regardless of the weather, however preparing for the different weather conditions is a must.
Your truck needs to be prepared before the long summer challenging both you and your truck. Although it can be tricky, we are here to help you on how to prepare for your first summer, as well as every summer that follows.
Checking Traffic Reports
During the summer there is an increase in traffic. There is an increase in families going on a vacation, road trips, and the summer is also the season where construction crews repair and expand the roads.
So be sure to check traffic reports and plan your route accordingly.
Checking The Cooling System
Checking your cooling system is really important as you don’t want to catch yourself driving long distances without air conditioning or with an overheated engine.
So be sure to check your radiator, change the air filter, assess the antifreeze levels and make sure to test the cooling system.
Checking Your Tires
The heat in summer causes blowouts, specially in the case that you have tires that are worn out, or not inflated properly. So make sure that you inspect your tires for proper traction and don’t forget to check the tire pressure on a regular basis.
Check Your Engine
Excessive heat in the summer can cause issues you do not want to deal with. So checking your engine before time is a good way to prevent all those issues. Check all the fluid levels, change your oil, and inspect the belts, battery, hoses,
Checking Weather Reports Regularly
Although you don’t have to worry about snow, sleet, hail of winter, summer storms come unexpectedly quick. You also have to check for floods, lightning storms and tornadoes. So make checking weather regularly a habit, it will help you and ensure your safety on the road.
Appropriate Clothing
It may sound weird, however, the best option for summer clothing is long sleeves along with head coverings. Your windows and windshield transfer heat and to help reduce the risk of getting sunburns.
This clothing only reduces the chances of sunburns, your neck, hands and face are still exposed. Therefore, a high spf sunscreen is something you should stock up on. Make sure to apply plenty of sunscreen every few hours.
Pack Lots Of Water
One may assume that as you are not physically active during driving, staying as much hydrated may not be an issue. However, due to heavy heat, dehydration can become an issue which can make it unsafe for you to drive.
Remember to pack plenty of water, you can also pack your favorite beverages, but make sure that you stay hydrated.
Upgrading Your Emergency Kit
An emergency kit is something you should have. It can include traffic cones, flares, among other essentials. You should also have an ice cooler and reusable compresses so that you can have a bit of cooling. Consider purchasing a mini fan and spray bottles as well.
We at Gillson hope that this blog provides you with a guide that you can mold your summer around. As always, drive safe and goodluck!