When it’s hot outside, especially in states like Florida or Texas, truckers need to take extra precautions because they’re the most exposed to the scorching heatwave. It’s a serious problem and can cause severe health conditions and even death. 

It’s Important to Take Precautions

According to EPA, 1300 people die per year in the U.S alone because of extreme heat. So being a trucker, who’s behind the wheel throughout the summer, you need to take some precautions to protect yourself. Some of them are:

• Drink lots of liquids: When the temperatures rise, your body starts to cool off to maintain your natural body temperature. And it does that by releasing sweat which brings down your temperatures. However, if released too much, it can cause dehydration. To avoid this, drink lots of cool drinks (avoid caffeine and alcohol). Drinking lots of water is the best way to replenish your body’s fluids.
• Remove Unnecessary Clothing: The more layers of clothes you have on you, the warmer your body will get, which can cause a range of problems, including heatstroke, difficulty breathing, dehydration and so on. So wear light, breathable clothes and don’t put layers on yourself. 
• Take Cool Showers: When you’re on the road, you might not have anywhere to stop and take a cool shower. But if you can invest a few bucks in a motel, get a room when the sun is in its full form, take a shower, relax for an hour or two and when you’re fully dry, hit the road again. This will keep you from getting exhausted while driving under extreme temperatures.
• Proper Air Flow: Make sure your truck has an appropriate flow of air. You’ll be spending hours inside a box of tin; you need adequate ventilation and a working air conditioner to keep you cool. Also, drive under the shades as much as you can and do not park your truck in the open sun as it will heat up quickly.

Symptoms for Heat-Related Health Issues

Even when you’re following heat stress safety protocols, it is imperative to know the symptoms of a heat-related problem. So if you experience any one of them, you’ll know you have to head to the emergency room. 

• Heat Stroke: The most severe and risky health condition one can experience from the heatwave. If you experience seizures, loss of consciousness and confusion, call 911 or seek help from a medical facility if nearby. 
• Heat Exhaustion: Also known as dehydration, if you experience nausea, headache, irritability, heavy sweating, dizziness or weakness, seek help on an urgent basis.
• Heat Cramps: Loss of salt in the body because sweating can cause painful muscle cramps. Make sure to take some rest, drink salty drinks or seek medical help. Having cramps while driving can lead to accidents. 

Take Care of Yourself – Get a Truck Driver Insurance

Besides following these safety protocols and remembering heat stress symptoms, you should also get a truck driver insurance policy. In case any accident occurs, or your health condition worsens, you’ll be compensated and taken care of. With any questions you may have, please reach out to our Parcel Delivery Department at (860) 453-0116 or visit our website at www.paradisoinsurance.com.