Arizona News – Summer is nearly here and with it comes heat that’s all too familiar to Arizonans. With temperatures rapidly rising and in recognition of Heat Awareness Week (May 6-10), the Arizona Department of Transportation wants to remind motorists to prepare themselves and their vehicles for driving in extreme heat.
Whether you’re planning summer road trips or a daily commute, ADOT has safety tips for drivers and passengers as triple-digit temperatures settle in for summer.
Your car becoming disabled or breaking down in extreme heat can be dangerous, especially if you’ll need to make repairs, like fixing a flat tire, which causes exertion. Before heading out, check the following things in your vehicle:
- Fill up your gas tank and try to keep it about three-quarters full.
- Make sure your vehicle’s A/C is in good working order.
- Test your vehicle’s battery and ensure it is up to par and has enough fluid.
- Top off coolant levels if needed.
- Check your tire pressure to reduce the chances of a blowout.
Don’t forget to pack an emergency travel kit. Unexpected delays can occur, and it’s better to be safe than sorry. Be sure to pack:
- Extra water
- Healthy snacks
- Fully charged cell phone and battery charger
- First aid kit
- Sun protection (sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, etc.)
- Prescription medication
- Flashlight and batteries
Find more extreme heat driving tips at azdot.gov/severe-weather.