August is a popular time for vacations as families take to the road before school begins.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Commission (NHTSC) offers the following tips for safe summer travel.
Summer Changes
Air Conditioning
As the temperature rises, your A/C has to work harder to keep your vehicle cool. Check A/C performance before traveling.
Heatstroke
Never leave children alone in the car—not even for a few minutes. Vehicles heat up quickly. Even if the outside temperature is in the 70s and the windows are cracked, the temperature in a vehicle can rapidly reach deadly levels. A child’s body temperature rises three to five times faster than an adult’s.
Belts and Hoses
High summer temperatures accelerate the rate at which rubber belts and hoses degrade. Worn or loose equipment should be replaced before travel.
Vehicle Checks
Tires
Make sure each tire is filled to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended inflation pressure. Inspect your tires at least once a month and before long road trips. Look closely at your tread and replace tires that have uneven wear or insufficient tread.
Cooling System
Make sure you have enough coolant in your vehicle, and that the coolant meets the manufacturer’s specifications.
Fluid Levels
Check these fluids: oil, brake, automatic transmission or clutch, power steering, windshield washer.
Batteries
Check the battery and repair or replace if needed,
Lights
Check your headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers, and interior lights. Be sure to also check your trailer brake lights and turn signals, if necessary.
Wiper Blades
Like rubber belts and hoses, wiper blades are vulnerable to the summer heat. Examine your blades for signs of wear and tear on both sides. If they aren’t in top condition, invest in new ones before you go.
Stock Your Vehicle
- Recommended emergency roadside kit contents include:
- Cell phone and charger
- First aid kit
- Flashlight
- Flares and a white flag
- Jumper cables
- Tire pressure gauge
- Jack (and ground mat) for changing a tire
- Work gloves and a change of clothes
- Basic repair tools and some duct tape (for temporarily repairing a hose leak)
- Water and paper towels for cleaning up
- Nonperishable food, drinking water, and medicines
- Extra windshield washer fluid
- Maps
- Emergency blankets, towels and coats
For the full NHTSC safety list, click here.