How To Stay Cool in the Heat in Your Truck This Summer
Heat-related illnesses: What CMV drivers need to know
Summary
- Extreme heat can affect a truck driver’s body and mind, making it important to recognize the warning signs of heat-related illness.
- Heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the most common heat-related illnesses, and heat stroke is by far the most serious.
- Staying hydrated, dressing for the weather and taking frequent breaks can help drivers stay comfortable and focused.
- Simple strategies such as using window shades, parking in the shade and carrying cooling towels can help keep the inside of the cab cool.
Extreme heat affects almost everything in and around a truck. It can cause the engine to overheat. It makes loading and unloading a sweaty mess. It can even cause drivers to feel ill, and some of those illnesses can be fatal.
Heat is the leading weather-related cause of death in the U.S. Heat-related illnesses tend to start slowly but progress rapidly, which is why it’s important to know the early warning signs.
Answers to drivers’ most-asked hot-weather questions
How can drivers stay cool when the temperatures climb? Here are some of the top hot-weather questions truck drivers ask every summer and the tips they use to stay safe.
What Are the Top Heat-Related Illnesses Truck Drivers Should Worry About?
Heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the three most common medical conditions caused by extreme heat.
Heat cramps, typically in the abdomen, arms or legs, can happen when drivers perform strenuous activity, such as lifting or loading their truck, in the heat. They occur when sweat begins to remove water and salt from the body. Heat cramps are painful and can be an early indication of more serious illnesses.
Heat exhaustion happens when the body loses too much water and salt. It is serious but manageable. Symptoms may include dizziness, thirst, heavy sweating, headaches, nausea, weakness, clammy skin, and a fast, weak heartbeat.
Heat stroke is a medical emergency. It occurs when the body can no longer control its temperature. Symptoms may include confusion, dizziness, dry, red skin, a racing heartbeat, inability to sweat, and a body temperature of 105°F or higher. Heat stroke can cause drivers to lose consciousness.
What Should I Do if I Start Feeling Overheated?
Take any signs of heat illness seriously. Turn on the air conditioning. Pull over or park in a safe space. Loosen or remove excess clothing. Drink water.
For heat cramps, gently massage the affected muscles or apply pressure to them. If cramping lasts for more than 1 hour, seek immediate medical attention.
For heat exhaustion, move to a cooler area, remove shoes and socks, take frequent sips of water, and apply cold compresses to the head, neck and face.
For heat stroke, call 911, move to a shaded, cool area, remove outer clothing, and place cold, wet cloths or ice on the head, neck, armpits and groin, or soak clothing with cool water.
How Do I Keep My Truck Cool When Parked Without Idling?
Certain states and municipalities restrict idling, meaning drivers can’t run their trucks’ air conditioning while parked. Some jurisdictions waive their anti-idling laws in hot weather, but others do not. Drivers in these regions can keep their trucks cool with window shades and battery-powered fans. Park in the shade and make the cab as cool as possible with air-conditioning before turning off the engine.
What Should I Wear While Driving in Hot Weather?
Loose-fitting, lightweight and light-colored clothing can keep truck drivers more comfortable on high-heat days. Avoid wearing dark-colored clothing, which can absorb heat and make drivers feel warmer. Sunglasses help protect the eyes from the sun’s UV rays, while wide-brimmed hats can keep drivers cool during loading, unloading, and pre- and post-trip inspections outside the cab.
Should I Drink Water on Hot Days Even When I’m Not Thirsty?
Yes. If you wait to drink water until you’re thirsty when the weather is warm, you might dehydrate. Instead, sip cool water or electrolyte-rich drinks throughout the day. Consider carrying an insulated water bottle that can be refilled at rest stops. Eating water-rich foods like watermelon, strawberries, grapefruit or celery can also keep drivers well-hydrated. Limit caffeinated and sugary beverages.
How Often Should I Take Breaks When It’s Really Hot?
Drivers should plan to take more frequent breaks, especially during heat waves. Schedule breaks at truck stops with air-conditioned lounges. Park in a shaded spot with the cab facing away from the sun. Take periodic breaks to cool off and rehydrate while loading and unloading. If possible, avoid heavy lifting and other strenuous activity during the early afternoon, which is typically the hottest time of the day.
What Should I Pack in My Truck’s Safety Kit for the Summer?
Pack extra bottled water, sports drinks or electrolyte packets. Drivers of trucks with mini fridges should store cooling towels for use in case of a heat emergency. Mini fans can help improve air movement in the cab. An emergency contact list and a change of clothes are other must-haves.
How Does Hot Weather Affect a Truck Driver’s Mood?
Hot weather can make drivers more irritable. It can also make them more fatigued behind the wheel, affecting their concentration and decision-making. In contrast, staying cool on hot days can keep drivers alert and refreshed.
Can I Get Sunburned While Driving?
Yes. The most common sunburn is called “trucker’s arm,” which happens when UV rays pass through the driver’s side window. Wearing sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher can help prevent sunburn. So can window shades or UV-blocking film. Reapply sunscreen every two hours on sunny days.
What’s the Difference Between a Heat Advisory and Heat Warnings?
A heat advisory is issued when the “feels-like” temperature (air temperature plus humidity) may increase the chance of heat-related illness. An extreme heat watch is issued when conditions for extreme heat are likely in the near future. An extreme heat warning is issued when dangerously high heat is happening or about to happen. Drivers who understand these warnings and stay up to date on weather conditions will be best prepared to beat the heat.
Get more health and wellness advice. Follow these tips to stay strong physically and mentally this summer.