Travel Safe this Summer

Summer is here, and temperatures have been heating up! Throughout the season, many people plan a road trip to a desired location to relax and recharge. Just as you prepare your vehicle for the winter months, it is important to ensure you and your mode of transportation are ready for the task in warmer months. So, today let’s chat about a few things to keep in mind to travel safely this summer.  

 Prepare Your Vehicle  

 It is good practice to give your vehicle a servicing before setting off on any journey, but particularly important when preparing to travel long-distance. 

Even a well-maintained vehicle can break down, so it’s recommended to put together an emergency roadside kit to carry with you. A cell phone tops the suggested emergency kit contents list since it allows you to call for help when and where you need it. Additional recommended emergency roadside kit contents include:  

• Cell phone and charger
• First aid kit
• Flashlight
• Flares and a warning flag
• Jumper cables
• Tire pressure gauge
• Jack (and ground mat) for changing a tire
• Work gloves and a change of clothes
• Essential repair tools and some duct tape (for temporarily repairing a hose leak)
• Water and paper towels for cleaning up
• Non-perishable food, drinking water, and medicines
• Extra windshield washer fluid
• Maps (paper maps are good backups if you lose cellular service)
• Emergency blankets, towels, and coats

Air Conditioning  

As the temperature rises, your A/C must work harder to keep your vehicle cool. Check A/C performance before travelling. A lack of air conditioning on a hot summer day affects everyone but is hazardous for people in poor health or sensitive to heat, such as children and older adults.  

The summertime heat has proven to be especially deadly for children regarding vehicular heatstroke. Never leave children alone in the car, not even for a few minutes. Vehicles heat up quickly and a child’s body temperature rises three to five times faster than an adults.  

High summer temperatures accelerate the rate at which rubber belts and hoses degrade. Look under the hood and inspect all belts and hoses to ensure there are no signs of bulges, blisters, cracks, or cuts in the rubber. It’s best to replace them now if they show noticeable wear. While you’re at it, make sure all hose connections are secure.  

Tires  

Ensure each tire is filled to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended inflation pressure, listed in your owner’s manual and on a placard on the driver’s side door frame. Don’t forget to check your spare if your vehicle has one. Do not inflate your tires to the pressure listed on the tire itself. That number is the maximum pressure the tire can hold, not the recommended pressure for your vehicle. A tire doesn’t have to be punctured to lose air. All tires naturally lose some over time. Underinflation is the leading cause of tire failure. Inspect your tires at least once a month and before long road trips. 

Lights  

Check your headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers, and interior lights. Be sure also to check your trailer brake lights and turn alerts, if necessary. Carry spare bulbs if you are going to remote areas.  

Wiper Blades  

After the heavy toll imposed by winter storms and spring rains, windshield wiper blades may need to be replaced. Like rubber belts and hoses, wiper blades are vulnerable to summer heat. Examine your blades for signs of wear and tear on both sides. The blades can also deform and fail to work correctly in both directions. If they aren’t in top condition, invest in new ones before you go.  

The last thing you want is to spend your holiday stuck somewhere other than your desired destination, with a vehicle that won’t work! Planning before you leave can reduce your stress while on your vacation, ensuring you stay safe, and enjoy your time away.