Surge in breakdowns expected in extreme heat with drivers urged to take precautions
RAC offers advice on what to carry to stay safe
With red weather warnings in place this week for extreme heat, RAC road safety spokesperson Rod Dennis said:
"Red extreme heat warnings are rare and we urge everyone to take them seriously this week. Drivers whose vehicles don't have effective air conditioning should strongly consider postponing any non-essential car journeys until the Met Office’s weather warnings are lifted and temperatures drop. If this isn’t possible, our best advice is to travel during cooler times of day. This is especially important for anyone travelling with vulnerable people, including young children and older adults, who are at greater risk from the intense heat. We'd also remind motorists never to leave pets inside a hot vehicle, as doing so can quickly become fatal.
“This week could end up being a record-breaking one for June - not just because of the heat, but also for the number of drivers breaking down. Our last busiest June was three years ago, but there’s every chance that could be eclipsed this week as temperatures soar. Today, we expect breakdown volumes to be around 20% higher than what’s normal for a Monday in late June.
"We ask anyone who breaks down to be patient while breakdown providers prioritise the most urgent roadside jobs. The heatwave will affect services right across the UK and while all patrols will be working incredibly hard to assist drivers, longer waits are more likely. Staying safe in the heat is paramount, so we strongly recommend packing an emergency breakdown kit (see below) and waiting in the shade wherever possible.
“There are simple steps motorists can take to reduce the risk of a breakdown in the first place, however. It begins with a few basic checks under the bonnet before setting out. Make sure oil levels are sufficient and top up if needed. Coolant should also sit between the ‘min’ and ‘max’ markers - if it isn't, top it up yourself when the engine is cold and have it inspected by an RAC mobile mechanic or reputable garage as soon as possible.
"At these kinds of temperatures, road surfaces will soften, with darker patches of tarmac often the clearest indicator. Drivers may therefore see councils deploying gritting vehicles - a sight normally reserved for the winter - as applying a fine layer of granite dust can help maintain traction on melting roads. Motorists also shouldn’t be concerned if they spot water beneath their vehicle, as this is typically just condensation from the air conditioning system."
RAC’s top tips to keeping your car cool in a heatwave
- Don’t leave home without an emergency breakdown kit - see below
- Park in the shade. This is a simple solution that's often overlooked by drivers. But keeping your car out of direct sunlight is one of the best ways to keep the interior cool in the summer
- Cover the seats with a blanket or jacket. If your vehicle has leather seats then the summer sun will transform the surface of the seat into a hotplate. Keep them cool by covering them up, especially if you have to park in direct sunlight
- Learn how to use your car's air conditioning system. Do you really understand how your vehicle’s air con or climate control system works? Check the owner’s manual to fully understand how it operates and what setting(s) you need to use to cool the car’s interior quickly and effectively in the summer
- Carry water and soft drinks at all times. Keep a spare bottle of water and one or two soft drinks in your car at all times. Dehydration can impact your concentration and awareness levels, presenting a danger to drivers in hot weather conditions
- Keep a cool bag/box in your car. This will keep drinks and snacks cool in a heatwave and ensure you can properly hydrate and have a refreshing, cool snack
Your emergency breakdown kit – what to carry with you in these temperatures
- Plenty of water for the driver and all passengers – consider carrying a camping-style water carrier so you’ve always got plenty with you
- Sufficient snacks that won’t melt or go off in the heat – in a coolbox if you have one
- Hats and umbrellas to shield from the sun
- Sunscreen
- Emergency medication if needed
- A fully-charged mobile phone – and on smartphones, download and login to your breakdown service’s app, such as myRAC, to reach help as quickly as possible (this can also help your provider with locating your vehicle)
- A means of keeping pets secure if you have to leave your car – and sufficient food and water for them advice
Further advice to drivers on preparing for the heat can be found on the RAC website, as can a guide to what to do if you break down.
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