What to Pay Attention to When Driving on the Highway in 40-Degree Heat
2 Answers
Here are the precautions for driving on the highway in 40-degree heat: 1. Avoid running the air conditioning for extended periods: When the engine idles, incomplete combustion of gasoline produces carbon monoxide. Vehicles equipped with air conditioning usually have good sealing. Most people will experience dizziness, fatigue, and reduced memory after staying in such an environment for several hours. Additionally, passengers exhale large amounts of carbon dioxide, drastically reducing oxygen levels inside the car. Therefore, adjust the air conditioning settings appropriately or open the windows periodically for ventilation. 2. Avoid overinflating tires to prevent blowouts: In summer, highway surface temperatures are extremely high, and continuous friction with the road further increases tire temperatures, making blowouts and subsequent accidents more likely. In summer, it's best to maintain tire pressure around 2.3 kPa and avoid overinflation. 3. Refill the radiator promptly if low on water: If large amounts of white smoke suddenly emerge from the front of the car while driving, pull over immediately. This is a classic symptom of low radiator water levels. 4. Prevent vehicle fires in high temperatures: Vehicle fires are mainly caused by electrical or fuel leaks. Poor maintenance, aging parts, and damaged wiring can lead to electrical leaks. A corroded fuel tank over time can also cause fuel leaks, so preventing fires in high temperatures starts with proper vehicle maintenance. 5. Inspect tires frequently and replace them when necessary: Summer demands thorough vehicle maintenance and inspections, especially when driving on the highway in extreme heat, as it puts extra strain on tires and the engine. Always perform a thorough check before hitting the road.
High-speed driving in hot weather requires extra caution for both vehicle safety and personal condition. First, check the tire pressure—overinflated tires are prone to blowouts in the heat. I always use a tire pressure gauge before every trip to ensure it’s within the standard range. Speed control is crucial; excessive speed increases braking distance, and high road temperatures amplify friction, so I maintain a speed of around 100 km/h. Fatigue driving is a major hazard—high temperatures and excessive sweating can lead to exhaustion. I take a break at rest stops every hour and a half, drink water to stay hydrated, and bring fruits like watermelon to quench thirst. Avoid setting the air conditioning too cold to prevent heatstroke from sudden temperature changes when exiting the vehicle. Also, monitor the engine temperature—if the dashboard warning light turns red, pull over immediately to cool it down. Keep some water and basic tools in the trunk for emergencies.
