With temperatures on the rise, health professionals are recommending that all but essential travel should be reconsidered as weather-related incidents continue to impact travel. If you do find yourself on the road - either in the UK or overseas - in high temperatures, here are some things to bear in mind.
Check your tyres
Air expands in hot temperatures, so the air pressure in your tyres may be higher than you expect. Add to that the fact that you are further increasing the temperature via friction as your tyres move over scorching hot tarmac, and you could be heading towards a blowout. If the pressure is too high, release a little air. However, try to test your tyres in the temperature that you are likely to drive (i.e. don’t check your tyre pressure when it is 32° if you intend to drive at night when it is 24, and vice versa).
Check - and double check - your fluid levels
Just like us, our cars need plenty to drink in order to stay cool. Start with the coolant, which will prevent your car from overheating in higher temperatures. Top it up if the levels seem low, and put some in your boot, just in case. Your oil will need checking, too, to ensure that your engine temperature is regulated and that heat from friction is minimal. It is also a good idea to check your windscreen fluid; in dry temperatures, dust can build up on the windscreen which, accompanied by the glare from the sun, can have a real impact on your visibility.
Your battery
Your battery works double time on a boiling hot day, as the air con tends to go on full blast the second you get in. As with putting the heater on in winter, this causes an instant drain on the battery which makes it harder for the battery to recharge while the engine is running. If your battery is old, or you notice the central locking or lights are a bit sluggish, it is worth getting it checked out by a professional to prevent hot, sweaty (and costly) service station breakdowns.
You!
The most important working part of your vehicle is you. Get plenty of hydration, bring lots of water and refreshments to see you through the journey. If you are too hot, or tired, take a break; it is better to show up a little bit late than not at all.
If you do break down it is more important than ever that you get yourself and any passengers (including pets) out of the car as soon as possible. If practical, try to find a shady spot to shelter in, and make sure you have a large bottle of water for each passenger (including the dog!)
The best way to avoid breaking down is, of course, to get your car fully serviced before you go. If you are in doubt about fluid levels, tyre pressure or condition, or battery life, check in with your local garage for a pre-travel service.
We hope this was useful and happy travels! Follow Trust A Garage on Facebook or Twitter for more guidance.