(July 28, 2011) – Tomorrow, forecasters are predicting heat indices reaching near 100 degrees. The State Highway Administration (SHA) is alerting motorists to take precautions and perform routine checks on their vehicles to ensure vital systems have no visible damage and all fluids are at appropriate levels.  In excessive heat, a small problem with a hose or belt can become a major issue- particularly if there is congestion on the roadway.  During excessive heat days, SHA crews on the road are extra vigilant to spot stranded motorists and assist in any way possible.

Valuable fluids

• Motor Oil - Follow manufacturers’ recommendations on the weight of the oil, as well as that the existing oil is filled to the appropriate level and is clean.
• Antifreeze – Ensure that the cooling reservoirs in all vehicles are at appropriate levels.
• Windshield Wiper Fluid – Keep the windshield wiper fluid levels topped to help with visibility on the roads.

SHA recommends that motorists park in shady areas if possible or use windshield sun blockers to keep temperatures low inside vehicles.  Do not ever leave children or pets alone in a vehicle.  Upon entering a vehicle, open the door and windows to allow trapped heat to escape.  Once in the vehicle it is important to keep in mind that vehicle air conditioning systems take time to begin cooling.  It is equally important for motorists and their passengers to drink plenty of water during moderate to long trips to avoid becoming dehydrated.

Ridesharing or Mass Transit Use

When the National Weather Service issues excessive heat warnings, drivers should consider ridesharing to reduce the amount of vehicle emissions which lead to bad air quality.  Ridesharing also helps reduce fuel consumption and congestion.  Motorists are also urged to fuel vehicles after the hottest part of the day, preferably in the evening hours.

Using public transportation is also an important tool to reduce vehicle emissions and stay cool.  Citizens interested in mass transportation are urged to log onto www.mta.maryland.gov  or the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority at www.wmata.com.

SHA is keeping a watchful eye on its crews and suggests that pedestrians and cyclists keep some of these tips in mind:

Safety Tips for Workers

• Stay hydrated – drink plenty of water, approximately one cup every 15-20 minutes.

• Eat regular light meals and avoid heavy large meals during hot weather.

• Wear tinted safety glasses to reduce eye strain and headaches.

• Use sun protection (30 SPF or greater) and apply it once every two hours.

• Learn to recognize the signs and symptoms of heat-induced illnesses.

• Train staff about heat-related illnesses.

• Perform heaviest work during the coolest part of the day.

• Use the buddy system by working in pairs.

• Wear light, loose-fitting clothing.

• Take frequent breaks in cool, shaded areas to allow body temperature to cool down.

• Avoid beverages that contain caffeine.  These beverages often contain high amounts of sugar that may lead to dehydration.

• Replace lost potassium by consuming potassium-rich foods such as orange or grapefruit juice, bananas, apricots, cantaloupe, honeydew melons and raisins.

Taking a few extra minutes to make sure vehicles are in proper working order can go a long way and reduce the chances for a mechanical breakdown on the highway. 

For the latest information on road conditions and to plan routes accordingly to avoid congestion, log onto www.roads.maryland.gov and click the CHART icon.  CHART offers live traffic conditions and access to live traffic cameras.  Citizens can also follow SHA on Twitter @MDSHA.  

    

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