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Beat the Heat: 4 Essential Summer Safety Tips for Truck Drivers

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Super Dispatch
Beat the Heat: 4 Essential Summer Safety Tips for Truck Drivers

 

May is here and while the mild temperatures of spring are enjoyable, we all know what is waiting right around the corner: the scorching heat of summer. While truck driving in the winter has some obvious obstacles such as snow, ice, and sleet, summer should not be overlooked, especially when hauling in the vehicle transport marketplace.

 

Here at Super Dispatch, we have compiled a quick list of summer safety tips that truck drivers need to check out. Continue to learn more!

 

1.) Stay Hydrated

 

In the day and age where air conditioning is standard on just about every vehicle, commercial or otherwise, remembering to stay hydrated is often pushed to the wayside. Instead, many people opt for sugary drinks such as sweet tea or soda while out on the road. However, one important thing to consider is this: what if you experience a breakdown? In this event, you would be stranded for an undetermined amount of time, and even twenty minutes in the sun when dehydrated can leave you feeling sick and lethargic, pushing you closer to heatstroke.

 

Fill a jug with ice water and keep it filled. When you stop for fuel or to rest, make sure to top it back off. Most quality, insulated jugs are pretty affordable and can be purchased online or at just about any retail store. When driving, a singular, standard-sized water bottle isn’t going to do the trick. 


2.) Use Sunblock

 

Even though you are inside of a truck all day, you still can’t forgo sunblock. Through the windshield and windows of the cab, you can still be exposed to quite a bit of sun. Put some sunblock on your face and arms before heading out for the day. When you stop, make sure to reapply. This is especially important for long-distance drivers who can spend up to twelve hours a day on the road.

 

3.) Invest in Quality Eye Protection

 

The sun can do some serious damage to our eyes. Even if the sun is high overhead, the harsh glare off of other cars, buildings, or even the road can be painful. If you have to squint to shield some of the glare, you’re bound to wind up with an awful headache. Not only that, but your eyes will become irritated which can impair your vision and create a greater potential for accidents.

 

Do yourself a favor and invest in a high-quality pair of sunglasses. If you need to, get a prescription pair of sunglasses or buy the kind that has transition lenses. It will be well worth the money.

 

4.) Don’t Skip Pre-Trip Inspections

 

While this tip is applicable to truck driving in general, it is especially important during the summer. With rising temperatures comes the increased risk of certain components failing or overheating. For CDL drivers, it is imperative to complete the inspection before ever leaving for your destination. Check the condition of your brakes, tires, and fluid level prior to hitting the road. This simple step will keep you, and everyone you encounter on the road, safe. 


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