It might seem like a dream job to many, and it certainly does have its fair share of perks. Thundering along America’s highways with no one to answer to, surrounded by monumental scenery while listening to your favorite tunes, trucking is a vocation unlike any other.
But there are also a few drawbacks to driving a truck. Aside from the usual problems, such as a national shortage of parking, annoying roadworks, and unforgiving schedules, a more seasonal issue is the relentless summer heat. Despite the god given creation that is air conditioning, the heat can sometimes be a huge drag for many truck drivers.
Beat the Heat
We happen to be quite fond of our trucker members here at Truck Parking Club. We would prefer it if you didn’t wither away this summer, especially given the heat wave we are experiencing right now. So, we put together a little guide on how to stay cool in the summer, with a few tips and practices for all truck drivers out there.
Let’s get to it, starting with the most obvious tip of them all – plenty of guzzling.
Stay Hydrated
Keeping hydrated is one of the most important summer driving safety tips for truck drivers, although many of you fail to drink enough of the wet stuff. Aim for at least 64 ounces, but listen to your body – you might need more in extreme heat. Carry a large water bottle with you and take frequent sips to stay hydrated.
Avoid sugary drinks and caffeine, as they can further dehydrate you. Look for signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, dizziness, or dark urine accompanied by a nasty whiff. If you notice any of these symptoms, increase your water intake immediately.
Remember, thirst is not the sole indicator of being dehydrated, so don’t wait until you feel parched to have a drink.
Take Regular Breaks
When temperatures soar, your body needs time to cool down. So, plan to stop every couple of hours, especially during the hottest parts of the day. Look for rest areas and truck parking spots with shade where you can relax and cool off.
Even a short break can help lower your body temperature and reduce the risk of heat exhaustion, so try to use these breaks to stretch your legs, rehydrate, and rest. Slowing down and taking it easy can prevent overheating and keep you focused. Remember, your safety and comfort are more important than racing against the schedule, so don’t hesitate to pull over when you need a break.
Use Sun Protection
Protecting yourself from the sun is another crucial summer driving safety tip for truck drivers. Using visors and sunshades in your cab can make a big difference: they help block out the harsh rays, keeping the interior cooler and reducing glare. Don’t forget sunscreen, especially on your face and arms. Even through the windshield, UV rays can be harmful.
Wear light-colored, breathable clothing to reflect sunlight and stay cooler. Some fabrics even offer extra UV protection, while hats and sunglasses are also good options to shield your face and eyes. It might seem like a chore, but regularly applying sunscreen and staying covered helps prevent sunburn and long-term skin damage.
Keep Your Cab Cool
Air conditioning is a trucker’s best friend in the summer, but not everyone has it or likes to use it constantly. If you prefer a different approach, try using fans to circulate the air. Finding good truck parking can also make a huge difference in temperature.
Consider using window coverings or sunshades to block out direct sunlight. This keeps your cab from turning into an oven when parked. Another tip is to crack the windows slightly to allow hot air to escape while parked. These methods are all part of summer driving safety tips for truck drivers, helping you stay cool and focused on the road. It’s all about finding what works best for you and your truck.
Dress Appropriately
Wearing the right clothes can make a big difference in staying cool in a truck. Light-colored, loose-fitting clothes are your best bet for reflecting sunlight and allowing air to circulate. Fabrics designed to wick away sweat and provide UV protection are ideal. Keeping an extra set of clothes in your cab can be helpful for those particularly scorching days.
Comfort is king, and dressing appropriately is an important part of summer driving safety tips for truck drivers. Stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy the journey, even in the heat.
Summer Driving Safety Tips for Truck Drivers – Final Word
Staying cool during summer trucking is all about preparation and smart choices. There really isn’t much more to it. Just stay hydrated, take regular breaks, use sun protection, keep your cab cool, and dress appropriately. Do those things, and you should find the tough summer heat is more bearable.
Ready to make things even easier this summer? With our popular, easy-to-use platform, truck drivers can browse available parking spots and book thousands of parking spaces across America.
After all, real peace of mind comes with knowing your next stop is secured, and you don’t have to waste precious time endlessly circling busy truck stops for spaces that don’t exist. Sign up to become a Trucker Member today!
The information published herein is for general informational purposes only. Truck Parking Club does not make any representations or warranties about the completeness, reliability, legality, and accuracy of this information. Any reliance placed on such material is strictly at the user’s own risk. Truck Parking Club shall not be responsible for any losses or damages incurred in connection with the information published herein.
