Shutting yourself inside a car where the temperature is above 35 degrees is a bit like drinking and driving. The suffocating heat slows down the blood flow to the brain, to a degree that is roughly equivalent to a blood alcohol level of 0.5g per litre. This makes reactions sluggish, adds to feelings of sleepiness, and generally slows down response times to everything. That's why it's important to take the right precautions when having to drive in hot conditions.
BEFORE STARTING YOUR JOURNEY
When temperatures get very high, tyre pressures can go up as air expands. While it's always important to check tyre pressures, it's particularly necessary to do it during hot weather – as rapidly-expanding hot air could even cause a tyre blow-out. When checking pressures, always do so when the tyres are cold to get an accurate reading. Also, check that the air conditioning is correctly gassed and that the air filters are clean; as your air conditioning is likely to be on for the entire journey (so you may as well have clean air). Then there are various fluids that need to be checked: especially radiator coolant fluid. To stay alert and well, it's best to avoid alcohol and eat sparingly at mealtimes – but make sure that you don't go without food for more than two or three hours at a time, to feel on top of your game.
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AIR CONDITIONING: YOUR BEST FRIEND
We've all been there: you leave your car parked in the sun, come back after a few hours and can't face the prospect of sitting down on the burning seat. What's the best thing to do? Firstly, leave the windows or doors open for around 30 seconds, so that the hot air inside the car escapes and equalises with the outside temperature.
After that, you could put just the fan on for a bit and then the air conditioning. If it's hotter than 30 degrees outside, it might be an idea to set the air conditioning to no lower than 21 degrees, both to avoid excessive fuel consumption (air conditioning actually saps power from the engine) and a sudden change in temperature, which is never too good for the body. Selecting the “auto” setting – if available – does this for you. It's also best not to point the air vents directly at you: this reduces the risk of muscular pains, which are often attributed to cold air.
DURING THE JOURNEY
Tackle long journeys at cooler times of day if you can, but if that's unavoidable, there are several precautions you can take. Don't forget to carry water for yourself, your passengers, and any animals coming with you. Pets must never be left in a parked car: after only a few minutes cabin temperatures can soar to lethal levels.
If it's not too hot, open the windows for some natural ventilation. If you are travelling with young children, make sure that they are protected from the sun. Don't forget that you can still get sunburnt in a car: apply sun cream, and wear sunglasses to avoid tiring your eyes too much.
Finally, try not to leave the engine running for too long while parked to keep the air conditioning working. This can sometimes result in a fine, depending on where you are.
