10 hot tips for professional drivers in 2023

According to forecasts, the temperature in Canada reaches 29-33 C in the shadows. Under these conditions, driving becomes more stressful and demanding, and the durability of materials is reduced. Therefore, our experts have prepared for you 10 instructions for professional drivers. Learn how to protect yourself and your health on hot days.

1. More concentration on the road.

Professional drivers are trained professionals behind the wheel, while everyone else is trained Amateurs at best. Even if it is sometimes difficult, proficient drivers should remain calm even in critical situations because they drive up to 40 tons and take on more responsibility.

2. Avoid distraction.

Tablets, magazines and mobile phones are not allowed while driving.

3. Watch your sting.

Carbohydrates contribute to concentration, and too heavy, fatty and too oversized dishes cause fatigue. Light food, lots of fruit, small portions and enough liquid are ideal for high temperatures.

Snacks containing carbohydrates, such as cereals with yogurt, fruit with cottage cheese or buttermilk, granola bars, dried fruits, nuts or whole wheat bread with honey.

Sweating in combination with too little fluid also quickly leads to fatigue, headaches or lack of concentration and, as a consequence, to a slower reaction. Professional drivers should drink at least three litres of liquid on hot days.

Water, water with lemon or unsweetened tea replenishes mineral reserves and prevents problems with blood circulation.
But stay away from cold drinks – they cause abdominal pain and keep you cool for a short time and even increase sweating, as the body is forced to compensate for the large temperature difference.

4. Do not neglect sleep.

For professional drivers, extreme temperatures combined with heavy traffic mean a heavy load for the body. Heat and poor sleep adversely affect concentration and thus significantly increase the risk of accidents. Therefore, sleep is vital (at least seven hours a day). The first symptoms of drowsiness are burning eyes, frequent blinking. That means it's time for a break.

5. Install the air conditioner correctly.

Excessive cooling of the cabin brings only a short relief, and in the long term, can even cause problems with blood circulation. The air conditioner must be set to a maximum deviation of six degrees from the outside temperature. Before starting the movement, it is necessary to ventilate the cabin.

6. Cold cabin.

If Parking in the sun is unavoidable, additional protection may be useful, such as a screen on the windscreen reflecting the sun's rays. Do not use wet wipes for glass in transit – they only increase the humidity and, therefore, the car's temperature.

Use special sprays and creams to cool the body, and the t-shirt can be cooled in the refrigerator before you put it on. When unloading and during other works on the street, it is recommended to use a light headdress.

7. Watch your body.

If you have dizziness, nausea or severe headaches, stop, look for shadows, drink water. If symptoms are severe and persist, consult your doctor. You can use the telephone on the emergency pole (located on the highways of Canada). A free 911 or 112 hotline will allow you to contact your nearest doctor.

8. Do not forget that the car also does not tolerate heat.

In summer, especially in hot weather, do not forget about the appropriate tire pressure. The tires become softer at high temperatures, their contact surface increases, and they wear out faster. If the pressure is too low, the tire becomes soft. Then it can overheat and crack or catch fire. Therefore, before starting the route, check the tire pressure and inspect them for possible damage. Additionally, at least once every two weeks, the driver must check the tire pressure in the "cold" form (including the spare wheel).

9. The correct response to the blowout.

If, despite all precautions, the tyre ruptures, it is necessary to remain calm and start braking as soon as possible. It doesn't have to be harsh. The braking of the vehicle should be carried out gradually. Unlike the rear tire, damage to the driven axle tire is often noticeably faster. The car is harder to move – if it blows to the right, the puncture on the right if the left – then on the left side. In this situation, as soon as possible, stop (braking gradually) to make a check.

10. Appropriate behaviour in the event of a tyre fire.

In turn, when a tire burns, the first rule is to "not endanger a person's life." On dual tires, continue driving with the alarms until the burning tire is disconnected from the rim. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles. However, it is important not to stop suddenly, which can lead to the spread of fire on the whole truck.

If the tyre has already separated from the disc, stop the vehicle on the emergency lane, disconnect the tractor and Park it at a distance of approx. 20 meters further. In single tires or tires on the front axle, you have to decide what is best – to stop the car, or continue driving at low speed. However, be sure to stop if the burning tire bursts or the disc is loose. Otherwise, you may lose control of the car.

The fire in the initial stage is usually extinguished with a standard six-kilogram powder fire extinguisher. Do not forget to inform the fire department as soon as possible, preferably while driving. It is important to give a detailed description of the vehicle's position and information about the goods, especially if the goods are dangerous.