Don’t check the pressure when you’ve been driving for a while because the tyres will be warm and you won’t be able to tell whether the tyre pressure is correct.

Coolant

Before you start your journey, check the level of coolant in the system.

Clear windscreen

There are generally more flies and insects about in hot weather, and your windscreen needs to be kept clean.

Keep the windscreen as clear as possible of water and grease marks. This helps to cut down glare.

Check the level in the washer reservoir and top up if necessary. Using an additive may help to keep the windscreen free of smears and streaks.

It’s also important to stay hydrated when driving in hot weather. The Food Standards Agency suggests that adults should drink at least 1.2 litres (6 to 8 glasses) of water a day. In warm weather you may find you need even more than this, so make sure you’ve had something to drink before you start out and carry additional bottles of water in the car. It’s also essential to schedule proper breaks to eat, drink and rest if you’re driving long distances.

Dealing with glare

Glare

One of the main problems when driving in sunny conditions is glare. This can seriously reduce your ability to see.

Reduce your speed and take extra care. If the roads are wet, reflected glare can increase the problem.

Drive slowly and carefully if you’re being dazzled by bright sunshine. Watch out particularly for pedestrians and cyclists, and make sure you can stop quickly if necessary.

Constant sun in your eyes can be exhausting on a long journey and may well affect your concentration.

Even if you don’t feel the need for them, the correct sunglasses can reduce the glare and keep your eyesight effective for longer. This is especially important if you’re driving abroad, where conditions are hotter and the sunlight brighter than you may be used to.

Low-angle sun

Glare can be worse in the winter when the sun is low in the sky. Wear sunglasses and/or use your visor to cut out as much glare as possible. Avoid looking directly into the sun.

Coping with heat

Make sure you have adequate ventilation inside the car. Air conditioning helps, if you have it. Take plenty of breaks and refreshment on a long trip.

If you feel sleepy, stop and rest where it’s safe. Never stop on the hard shoulder of a motorway when you feel tired. Use the service areas or get off the motorway.

Listen to travel information and try to avoid known traffic hold-ups.

Overheated engines in long traffic queues are the most frequent causes of breakdowns in these conditions.

If you’re travelling with pets, make sure that your vehicle is sufficiently ventilated to keep them cool. Dogs are particularly vulnerable in hot weather, so it’s advisable to take some water that’s specifically for them and make scheduled stops to ensure their comfort. Never leave your pet in a hot, unventilated car.

Road surfaces

Soft tarmac

During long periods of hot weather, many tarmac road surfaces become extremely soft. Take care when braking and cornering.

Oil

Oil, water and rubber dust from tyres can make the hot surface of the road slippery and dangerous, particularly if there’s a sudden rain shower after a long dry spell.

Take extra care; watch your speed and keep your distance.

Loose chippings

Many highway authorities replace the granite-chipping road surfaces during the summer. Always observe the special warning speed limits and keep well back from the vehicle in front.

Flying stone chips can cause not only expensive damage to your vehicle, but also serious injury to pedestrians and other road users.

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