Keeping yourself, vehicle functioning in extreme heat
Jun 17, 2017, 3:26 PM | Updated: 3:28 pm
With temperatures pushing the extremes this weekend, the Arizona Department of Transportation is reminding motorists to take extra precautions when traveling on Arizona highways.
In a press release, ADOT is recommending motorists to plan ahead including having a fully charged cell phone as well as extra drinking water for all passengers including pets.
ADOT added that even though your vehicle may have air conditioning, it’s good to be ready in case you spend extended time on the highway because of traffic or due to a breakdown. Be sure to have sunscreen, an umbrella for shade, a wide-brimmed hat, and loose-fitting light-colored cotton clothing.
It’s also recommended to keep your gas tank full to at least three-quarters of a tank to avoid running out of gas in remote locations, which can be a dangerous situation in extreme heat.
Among other recommendations, ADOT said to take a cooler to keep extra drinking water cold and considering adding several frozen bottles of water to use for cooling off or thaw and drink if needed. If your vehicle breaks down, call for assistance right away to reduce the wait time and run the AC. If the AC isn’t working, then roll down all windows.
With the Valley under an excessive heat warning until the middle of next week with temperatures expecting to climb well over 110 degrees, including Tuesday’s forecasted high of 121, it’s highly recommended to drink plenty of water and making sure everyone including pets is staying hydrated.
ADOT added that if the temperatures inside your vehicle become too hot, everyone should exit carefully and seek out or create a shaded area as far away from the travel lanes as possible. Also, it’s recommended to walk carefully on road surfaces as it can become hot enough to burn skin. Keep shoes on and try and keep your pets’ paws off the pavement.
ADOT said the best way to avoid having any car problems in the heat is by taking preventive measures by making sure your air conditioner and coolant levels are topped off, make sure your battery is up to par and check tire pressures as the combination of underinflated tires and hot pavement can lead to a blowout.
Saturday’s high temperature was forecasted for 110 with the temperatures steadily climbing from there with Sunday’s high of 114, Monday’s high of 119, Tuesday’s 121 and Wednesday’s high is suppose to be 118.
