Free Cars

Usually winter is thought of as the challenging time for drivers. In many ways, driving in summer can be just as demanding, especially when we’re facing long holiday journeys.

Checks for your car?

Make sure your car is serviced and you’ve checked it’s in good shape. Long holiday drives often stress your car, making it the most likely time for something to break and cause a problem.

Check the engine oil and coolant levels, and how well the brakes, clutch and power steering are working. Make sure your tyre pressures are correct - have you allowed for hot weather and higher loading? Check your car’s handbook for the correct tyre pressures. And don’t forget your spare tyre. Is it in good condition, and able to take the load of a heavy car if required?

Give your windscreen a good clean. It’ll get dirty soon enough on most journeys. While you’re poking around, don’t forget to check the windscreen wiper blades are fitted properly and are in good condition. If they are at all degraded or pitted, replace them before starting your journey.

Have a look at your lights - perhaps get someone else to make sure they’re working as you operate them - and make sure they’re clean and free from mud.

Do you have everything you need?

Do you have a current road map, or if you’re using a satnav is it’s software up-to-date? Is your mobile phone fully charged, and do you have the number of your rescue and recovery company in its contact list? Is your car breakdown cover up-to-date?

Take some screen wash along too. This will help you keep your screen as clean as possible.

For an extra level of safety, you may want to have a fire extinguisher in the car, just in case. Don’t load so much in the car that is is over it’s capacity, be especially careful if you are using a roof rack. Heavy items can unbalance the car, so make sure you spread things sensibly.

Don’t forget to care for the people too. Pack snacks and some cold drinks, preferably in a cool bag to help keep them cold.

On the journey

If your car radio has an RDS function for local road reports, make sure you have it switched on.

Fend off drowsiness by keeping the car well-ventilated. If you have allergy sufferers on-board, keep the windows closed and the air conditioning on.

Make sure you’re not dazzled by bright sunlight. Use sunglasses - make sure they’re near to you as driver - and use the car’s visors when the sun is low in the sky. In the event of a thunderstorm, slow down because braking distances can double with water on the road. Also, make sure you keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front.

If you have your family pets with you, never leave them in your vehicle, as heatstroke can prove fatal for dogs, and other animals can suffer badly. Take them with you, but make sure they don’t spend too long in full sunlight. They will be happier and healthier in the shade.

These things really will not take a lot of time and effort to do, even if it looks like a long list. They could be the difference between a safe, enjoyable summer, and one that’s memorable for being full of minor disasters.

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