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The summer is in full swing, and trucking in Florida is especially heating up. Just like during the winter when icy roads can be dangerous, it’s important to take care driving in the heat, whether it’s personal health or maintaining your truck.
In this post, we’ve compiled the most important tips for staying cool on the road this summer, especially if you’re looking for truck driving jobs in Jacksonville, FL.
This is a no-brainer, but don’t be stingy with your air conditioner, and make sure it is well-maintained.
A hot cab is more dangerous than you think. Studies show that a car cab temperature can rise by 40 degrees within an hour! That’s why it’s important to cool it down as quickly as possible as soon as you get into your cab. Extreme temperature fluctuations can take a toll on the body.
This is especially important if you drive with your dog in the passenger seat. Do not leave your furry best bud in a cab without air conditioning! Dogs overheat quicker than humans and a hot cab could be fatal.
The scorching temperatures pose a threat to your truck, but regular inspection and maintenance will keep it in tip-top shape no matter how high the thermometer climbs.
There are some parts that are more susceptible to heat damage than others, including the brakes, engine fluids, and tires.
Brakes wear out quickly when exposed to heat, reaching a point where they lose friction. Brakes need time to cool down, or else the brake fluid could boil. This makes it difficult for the brake pads to function properly, decreasing reliability.
Make it a priority to check your brakes before each trip, especially if you’re hauling a heavy load or traveling downhill. Drive defensively, shifting down gears to take the stress off the brakes when possible.
Check your coolant level and engine oil before each trip, as low levels can lead to the engine overheating in hot weather.
Those hot roads cause tires to fade quickly, leading to dangerous blowouts. Prepare your truck for the miles ahead by checking the air pressure regularly, which will help regulate tire temperature.
There are many ways to take care of your health and protect yourself from the sun’s powerful UV rays when driving.
Believe it or not, you can still get a sunburn while sitting in your truck cab. Ever hear of a farmer’s tan? Wear breathable, lightweight shirts and sunscreen. Invest in high-quality, polarized sunglasses, and don that iconic trucker hat.
Most importantly, stay hydrated! Dehydration is one of the biggest dangers during the hot months. It can be easy to overlook drinking water, especially if you are a big soda drinker.
Keep a cooler or mini-fridge stocked with water bottles for easy access, and take advantage of free water refills at truck stops. It’s recommended to drink at least eight cups of water per day.
