Summer safety reminders for trucking professionals

Summer will be here in just a few weeks and with it three months of long, sunny days and cross-country excursions. While working the summer season is one of the best parts about being a trucker, the weather and warm conditions present a number of safety hazards and risks. Here are four things you’ll want to keep in mind.

Check the tires. Over time, exposure to heat causes extensive wear and tear on your tires. Before leaving on a trip, make sure that your PSI is at the proper level. Driving on hot pavement also causes your treads to wear down, which, if you aren’t careful can lead to a blowout. If you ever notice small wires poking out of any of your tires, or you notice that your tires have lost all traction, invest in new shoes immediately.

Keep it cool. Heat and humidity can wreak havoc on the fluids within your truck’s engine. Every time you stop for gas, take a few extra minutes to inspect all of your fluid levels. This includes your oil, radiator fluid and windshield wiper fluid. In addition, you may want to carry a gallon or two of water in the event that you overheat.

Stay in a low gear on mountain roads. If your route will carry you through the intermountain west, be careful when driving on mountain roads. This time of year is tourist season, and going too quickly can cause you to burn out your brakes or get in an accident. Go slowly and always drive in a low gear on grades and inclines. It may add an hour or two to your trip, but it’s worth it.

Wear sunscreen. Even if your windows have tinting, take the extra step to slather your arms, ears, and neck in sunscreen. Long hours behind the wheel can lead to sunburns, and in severe cases, skin cancer.

We wish you a safe and bountiful summer trucking season. Be smart and stay safe!