Safety tips for driving in a heatwave

Driving in hot weather can have its own sets of challenges. Here are a few tips to make sure you have a safe drive when it’s hot. Learn how to prepare your car for warm weather:

• Check your cooling system
• Tire pressure check
• Car battery care for driving in extreme heat

When summer temperatures soar, you want to make sure your rental car feels more like an oasis than an oven. It’s important to be mindful of how warmer weather can affect your vehicle and driving habits.

This guide provides essential tips to help drive in extreme heat and ensure that your summer driving is safe and comfortable. From preparing your car to adjusting on-the-road habits, these strategies are designed to keep you cool and in control behind the wheel.

Preparing your car for the warm weather

When you pick up your rental car, it’s important to make sure it’s equipped to handle high temperatures. Here’s what to look out for when you’re going to be driving in hot weather:

• Cooling system check : Make sure to ask about the car’s maintenance history, particularly the radiator and coolant levels. This will help you avoid overheating issues during long summer drives.
• Air conditioning maintenance : Before driving in a heatwave, test the air conditioning to ensure it provides adequate cooling. If it seems underpowered, ask for it to be checked or consider a different vehicle.
• Tire pressure adjustments : Check the tire pressure yourself or ask the rental company to do so. The right tire pressure is important for safe driving and can prevent blowouts when it's hot.
• Battery care : Give the battery a quick visual inspection for any signs of excessive wear or corrosion. A well-maintained battery is essential, especially when using additional features like GPS and air conditioning that can drain power.

Your ultimate checklist for preparing your car for hot weather

• Check fluids:
• Coolant
• Motor oil
• Windshield wiper fluid
• Cooling system
• Tire pressure
• Battery
• Lights
• Extra tire

How to prepare yourself for the heat

Just like your car, you need to be prepared for the heat when you're driving in hot weather. Here are some tips to stay cool and comfortable:

• Stay hydrated: Always carry plenty of water with you, especially on long trips. Dehydration can quickly lead to decreased alertness and fatigue, which are dangerous when driving.
• Protect against the sun: Wear sunglasses to shield your eyes from harsh sunlight. Apply sunscreen, especially to parts of your body exposed to the sun through the car windows. Also, consider wearing a hat if you’ll be outside the car for extended periods.
• Dress appropriately : Wear light, loose clothes that help your body stay cool. Fabrics that wick away sweat are a great choice in hot weather.
• Plan for rest breaks: It's easier to get tired when it's hot, so plan for regular breaks on long drives. Stretch your legs, cool down, and refresh yourself. Try to schedule these breaks during the hottest part of the day.

Your ultimate checklist for driving in a heatwave

• Fully charged phone and charger
• Portable charger
• Drinking water
• Nonperishable foods
• Sunscreen
• Hat
• Sunglasses
• Emergency blanket and towel
• Emergency first aid kit
• Flashlight
• Car kit
• Jumper cables
• Triangle
• Jack
• Basic repair tools
• Any emergency medication you may need

Driving habits to keep you cool on the road

Driving in a heatwave requires changes to your typical driving habits to ensure safety. Here are some key tips to stay safe in your rental car when it's scorching outside:

• Adjust your driving times : Schedule your driving for early morning or late evening when the temperatures are cooler. Avoiding midday heat makes for a more comfortable ride and reduces the strain on your rental car’s engine and cooling system.
• Manage speed: Don't drive too fast when it's hot. It puts extra stress on your car and can lead to problems like flat tires. Keep an eye on the temperature gauge to avoid overheating.
• Utilize technology : Use GPS or traffic apps to monitor road conditions and avoid congested routes that might leave you stuck in the sun. These tools can help you find the quickest, and often coolest, route to your destination.
• Keep windows slightly open : If the air conditioning is not sufficient, keep your windows slightly open to allow for air circulation. This helps keep the car interior from becoming stiflingly hot, especially when parked.
• Watch for signs of overheating: Monitor your car’s temperature for any signs of overheating. This could look like steam coming from under the hood or a sudden loss of power. In case your engine overheats, pull over safely, turn off the engine, wait for it to cool down and call your rental company if there are any issues.

Driving in a heatwave: Prepare for emergencies

Despite the best preparations, high temperatures still present unexpected challenges while driving. Here’s how to stay prepared for emergencies in a rental car :

• Emergency kit: Keep an emergency kit in your rental car, with water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and a flashlight. In summer, add extra coolant, a portable fan, and a sunshade.
• Familiarize yourself with the vehicle: Before you drive off, ensure you understand how to operate all the essential features of the rental car, including hazard lights, the air conditioning system, and where the engine coolant reservoir is located.
• Breakdown protocol: Know what to do in case the car breaks down. Keep the rental agency’s roadside assistance number handy and familiarize yourself with their procedures. If you’re in an unfamiliar area, have a map or a GPS device to help you describe your location accurately.
• Stay cool and calm: If you’re stranded, use a sunshade on the windshield to reduce the cabin temperature and try to stay in the shade while awaiting help. Avoid leaving the car unless it’s safe and you know exactly where you’re going.