As temperatures rise during the summer months, ensuring vehicle safety becomes paramount.
The Ministry of Interior has outlined several key preventive measures that every driver should adhere to, aiming to mitigate risks and promote safe driving habits.
One of the fundamental aspects of vehicle safety in summer is maintaining the condition of tires and brakes. The heat of summer can exacerbate tire wear and increase the risk of blowouts, particularly on hot asphalt. Regular inspections and proper inflation are crucial to prevent accidents caused by tire failures.
When temperatures are high, the engine cooling system is very important in preventing overheating. Maintaining engine operating temperatures within safe limits requires routine inspections of coolant levels, hoses, and radiator performance. Road safety risks arise from overheating because it can cause engine damage and breakdowns. Car stability and safety may be jeopardized if drivers exceed the allowable load on the roof of the car; thus, they must rigorously abide by this limit. By keeping the vehicle balanced and lowering the possibility of accidents brought on by overloaded roofs, the recommended height limit of 60 cm is maintained.
The presence of flammable materials inside vehicles poses significant risks, especially in the intense summer heat. Items such as compressed perfume bottles, hand sanitizer sprays, gas canisters, mobile chargers, phone batteries, and cigarette lighters are particularly hazardous. These materials can ignite or explode when exposed to high temperatures, potentially causing fires or explosions within the vehicle.
Experts emphasize the importance of evacuating vehicles of these dangerous materials before parking under direct sunlight. The Emirates Astronomy Society warns that temperatures inside closed vehicles can exceed 65 degrees Celsius, far surpassing external temperatures due to the greenhouse effect. This extreme heat can trigger the combustion or explosion of flammable items, posing severe risks to vehicle occupants and nearby surroundings.
Ibrahim Al-Jarwan of the Emirates Astronomy Society draws attention to the particular risks connected to keeping combustible objects inside of cars in the summer. He emphasizes how the rising internal temperature of the car, which is made worse by global warming patterns, increases the chance of fire or explosion.
Authorities' Warnings and Initiatives
Authorities such as the Abu Dhabi Police and Civil Defense Authority echo these concerns, urging drivers to avoid storing flammable items inside their vehicles. They warn that items like lighters and portable chargers can malfunction in extreme heat, leading to potential fires or electrical hazards. In response to these risks, the Ministry of Interior launched the "A Summer Without Accidents" campaign. This comprehensive initiative aims to educate drivers and road users about the importance of vehicle safety measures during the summer months. The campaign emphasizes the necessity of regular maintenance, adherence to safety guidelines, and the evacuation of flammable materials to prevent accidents and promote safe driving practices.
Precautions for Summer Travel
With the onset of the summer vacation and travel season, drivers are encouraged to take additional precautions. Ensuring tire safety, performing regular vehicle maintenance, and observing load limits are critical steps to reduce the risk of accidents and ensure safe travels for all road users.
Prioritizing vehicle safety during the summer is essential to mitigate potential hazards associated with high temperatures and vehicle operation. By following preventive measures, evacuating flammable materials, and participating in awareness campaigns like "A Summer Without Accidents," drivers can contribute to safer road conditions and protect lives on the road. Adopting these precautions not only enhances personal safety but also promotes responsible driving practices throughout the summer season.
