With summer just around the corner, more people are out and about — whether it’s kids riding their bikes alongside the road or people piling into their cars for a summer road trip, there are more people and vehicles on the roads. In fact, Americans spend about 87 minutes each and every day in their cars. This is why it’s so important to ensure you’re driving as safely as possible during the summer time. So to help keep you, your family, and those around you safe this summer, here are a few simple driving and vehicle safety tips.
Have an Emergency Car Kit
When you’re driving, especially long distances, you never know when something could go wrong. And a recent survey revealed that an estimated 77% of cars were in need of maintenance or repairs. This is why you should always have an emergency kit in your car. This way, you’ll be prepared for anything that comes your way. Consider putting together a small kit of essential items like a flashlight, a first aid kit, a cell phone charger, water bottles, non-perishable food, blankets, and some basic tools. So whether it’s a flat tire, a minor car accident, or a broken down vehicle, you can be prepared. So when you’re packing up the car to head to the beach or even just to work, make sure you have your emergency kit, too.
Get Your Car Ready for the Heat
The high temperatures can actually do quite a bit of damage to vehicles. You should check your cooling system to ensure your coolant levels are full to prevent your engine from overheating. Additionally, you should routinely check the pressure in your tires, including your spare. Heat and cause tire blowouts and you always want to be prepared. You should also take a look at your radiator, pressure cap, and hoses for signs of wear and tear. And a quick Google search for heat safety tips doesn’t hurt, either! Considering almost 3.5 billion internet users existed in 2016, there If you notice any damage, make sure it’s fixed promptly.
Follow Basic Safety Rules
There are some basic safety rules drivers should always follow, like wearing your seatbelt and not texting while driving. You should make sure you’re following these rules and using common sense when behind the wheel. For example, flip flops and sandals are great shoes for summer weather, but they can get caught under the pedals while driving so make sure to have a spare pair of shoes with you. Additionally, keep kids calm and quiet when you’re driving so you don’t get distracted. And, of course, always be mindful of how much you’re drinking at summer pool parties and cookouts. With Michigan police being able to charge motorists under 21 for having any amount of alcohol in their system, it’s always a good idea to have a designated driver.
Be Careful About What You Leave in Your Car
It can be easy to leave items in a vehicle and forget about them until later. But if you leave certain items in your car in the heat, it could end badly. If you leave canned drinks or even hairspray in your car, the heat could cause them to explode. This is not only dangerous, but it’s going to result in a sticky mess. And obviously, you should never leave pets or kids in the car unattended. This can be extremely dangerous, even if the temperature outside isn’t that hot.
People care a lot about the safety of their streets and neighborhoods, especially with homeowners paying about $88 billion toward community associations in 2016. So keep these simple summer driving and car tips in mind to keep not only your family, but other families safe this summer.
Author: Kelsey R.
Metro Detroit Mommy writer Kelsey.
Metro Detroit Mommy writer Kelsey.