(NC)-As the weather turns warmer, motorists may feel they can relax on the road since the difficult driving conditions of winter have passed. While summer driving is not as difficult as winter driving, it is important to remain aware of other dangers lurking on the road during warmer weather.
"During the summer season, drivers tend to take longer road trips," said Megan Currie, Honeywell Consumer Products Group product manager. "To avoid a breakdown, it is important to prepare your vehicle for the stress of high temperatures."
Here are five tips to keep in mind as you drive this summer:
• Make sure your fluids, hoses and belts are in good condition. Turn off your engine and look for damaged hoses and worn belts. Inspect the antifreeze/coolant level and condition, and, if needed, top off with Prestone LongLife antifreeze/coolant. Prestone LongLife is compatible with any antifreeze/coolant used in any make or model of import and domestic passenger car or light duty truck on the road today.
• Remember to get an oil change before leaving for your trip. When driving in very hot temperatures or towing heavy items like a trailer or water sports equipment, consider switching to synthetic motor oil and using a FRAM Tough Guard oil filter. The Tough Guard oil filter utilizes a combination of synthetic glass and cellulose media that provides protection for tough driving conditions.
• Turn on your headlights in bad weather. Thunderstorms, overcast skies and fog reduce your visibility.
• Make sure your air conditioning is working properly. A long road trip can become unbearable in a hot car. If needed, have the air conditioning serviced by a qualified technician.
• Don't forget the emergency kit. You never know when a breakdown can occur. Make sure you are prepared for such instances by traveling with a flashlight, jumper cables, and a first aid kit. Also remember to pack warning devices like the Autolite Flareglo Safety Lite in case you are ever stranded roadside. The Autolite Flareglo Safety Lite is weather resistant, features super-bright LED (light emitting diode) technology for maximum visibility day or night and is safer than conventional flares. (Flares can present a number of safety issues if not used properly).
For more tips on road safety, visit www.prestone.com or www.getroadready.com.
Credit: www.newscanada.com