What Should Be Noted for Safe Driving in Summer?
2 Answers
Safe driving in summer requires checking tire pressure before departure, ventilating the car by opening windows before entering, avoiding prolonged driving in high temperatures, refraining from driving in slippers, and preventing fatigue driving. Below are detailed explanations: Check tire pressure before departure: For long-distance trips, inflate the tires to the manufacturer-recommended pressure. Do not set the pressure too high, as road temperatures are already elevated, and prolonged friction between the tires and the road will further increase tire pressure, raising the risk of a blowout. If your car lacks a tire pressure monitoring system, consider purchasing one from an auto parts store to monitor tire pressure regularly and ensure it remains within the normal range. Ventilate the car by opening windows before entering: Due to formaldehyde's low boiling point, its emission levels can be 20-30% higher in high temperatures. Therefore, a car exposed to intense sunlight will have significantly increased formaldehyde levels. Opening windows for ventilation helps avoid inhaling carcinogenic gases like formaldehyde and benzene. Avoid prolonged driving in high temperatures: Generally, during summer heat, it is advisable not to drive continuously on highways for more than three hours. Daytime summer driving often involves ambient temperatures above 35°C, with road surfaces reaching at least 60°C. Heat radiating from the road creates a thermal wave around the engine, impairing its cooling efficiency. Refrain from driving in slippers: Some drivers opt for slippers for coolness and breathability, but this is dangerous and constitutes a traffic violation. Prevent fatigue driving: Summer heat and poor air circulation can easily lead to driver fatigue, resulting in drowsiness, blurred vision, and slowed reaction times—factors that contribute to traffic accidents. When driving in hot summer weather, maintain a well-ventilated cabin with suitable temperature and humidity levels. If feeling fatigued, pull over to rest immediately and avoid pushing through.
Summer driving safety requires special attention in several areas. When I take the kids out for a spin in our family SUV, my biggest worry is the car breaking down in the heat. Before setting off, it's essential to check the tire pressure—too high and it's prone to blowouts; the coolant reservoir mustn't be low, as the engine tends to act up in high temperatures; the air conditioning system also needs testing—poor cooling turns the car into a steamer, making kids susceptible to heatstroke. Avoid driving during midday when the sun is strongest, as the glare can impair visibility; set the AC to around 23°C for both fuel efficiency and comfort; stock up on mineral water and sunscreen to prevent dehydration in emergencies; slow down and turn on fog lights immediately in heavy rain, as poor visibility is most dangerous; never leave anyone in the parked car—summer temperatures inside can soar above 50°C in minutes. Cars are more prone to spontaneous combustion this season, especially modified older models, so clearing debris from the engine bay is crucial. Adopting these habits significantly boosts safety.
