It’s that time of the year when the weather gets warmer and the days get longer. That can only mean one thing for truckers — time to hit the open road! With it being National Safety Month, we wanted to share a few important tips to help drivers stay safe and healthy while trucking this summer:
Summer Tips for Truck Drivers
Stay hydrated
It’s essential to drink plenty of fluids, especially water when it’s hot outside. Be sure to keep a water bottle with you at all times and drink regularly, even if you’re not thirsty.
Watch for signs of heat exhaustion
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include headache, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. If you start to experience any of these, it’s important to find a cool place to rest and rehydrate.
Wear sunscreen
Truckers are especially susceptible to sunburns since they spend so much time in the sunlight. Even with the windows rolled up and the A/C blasting, you can still get a sunburn. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher before heading out for your shift. Be sure to protect both your arms and face.
Take breaks
It’s important to take breaks often, especially in the heat. Find a shady spot to park and take a few minutes to rest and cool off.
Know your truck
Hot weather brings a new set of mechanical issues to deal with. Pay attention to things like tire pressure, engine temperature, and fluid leaks.
Wear sunglasses
Not only do sunglasses protect your eyes from the harmful UV rays of the sun, but they can also help reduce glare.
Plan your route
Be sure to plan your route before you hit the road. Map out rest stops and truck weigh stations so that you can take breaks as needed.
Check the weather
Before you head out, be sure to check the weather forecast. Avoid driving in extreme heat or thunderstorms.
Inspect your load
In the summer heat, it’s important to inspect your load regularly. Make sure that everything is secured and that there is no excessive heat build-up.
Prioritizing Safety at Liquid Trucking
For truck drivers, safety is more than just driving well, it’s also about taking care of your body. Getting your rest, staying hydrated, protecting your skin and eyes, etc. are all essential for performing at your best. You can help ensure a safe and enjoyable summer trucking experience by following these tips. At Liquid Trucking, we are committed to providing our drivers with the resources they need to stay safe and healthy on the road. Click the links to learn a little bit more about our safety program or healthcare program benefits.
To learn more about Liquid Trucking, please give us a call at 844-GO-TANKS.