WITH the recent unpredictable extreme weather conditions, there is no way of knowing just what drivers may face on the road.
More so with the current heatwave nationwide, which has led to even motor vehicles catching fire.
Hence, staying protected during the current heatwave that is expected to last until August is crucial. It includes knowing how to stay cool and ensuring our vehicles remain in good condition.
Extreme heat places additional stress on vehicles, potentially leading to performance issues or breakdowns. Dealing with a breakdown in sweltering heat is far from ideal, especially if you're required to be on the road for most of the day in extreme humidity.
To keep your motor vehicle functioning well, Liberty Insurance has come up with some essential tips:
Identify potential explosives: Keep items such as aerosol cans, electronic devices and lighters out of the parked car. Items that are packed in a pressurised can such as hairspray or even pepper spray may explode when the temperature inside the car rises above 50 degrees Celsius.
While most may think that this is unlikely to happen, a stationary car under the hot sun for hours on end may record a high internal temperature. Electronic devices like laptops, cameras, power banks or even USB drives may malfunction from heat damage.
Heat kills perishables: Don't leave consumables such as medication, food items or water in the car under the sun for long. High temperatures reduce medication effectiveness and pose potentially life-threatening risks if taken.
Heat promotes bacterial growth in water bottles, contaminating the water. Plastic bottles act as fire-starters by magnifying sunlight. Remember, wine corks may pop and canned soda can turn rancid or taste off when exposed to heat. Safeguard perishable items from heat-related issues.
Check the vitals of your vehicle: High temperatures can damage your vehicle, affecting both the engine and tyres. Prevent engine overheating by regularly checking and replacing engine oil and coolant levels. As temperatures rise, tyre pressure tends to increase, which can be hazardous on the road and lead to brake issues due to excessive wear.
Lastly, inspect batteries for corrosion and dirt build-up to maintain proper chemical balance and optimal performance.
Leave the mess at home: Parents
with children should be more wary of what items are brought into the car. While crayons, markers and even pens may seem like harmless items to bring into the car, heat can deform plastic pens and markers. Its ink will even leak and crayons may melt into a gooey mess due to the heat in the car. This may cause damage to the vehicle's interior and it is another mess for you to clean up.
Stay cool in the car: One of the most important things to take note of is the vehicle's air-conditioning unit. If the air-conditioning unit is faulty, it will be a dangerous ride. With temperatures on the rise, it will also cause passengers to become agitated and uncomfortable and could even cause a heatstroke, especially if you stay under the sun for too long.
So, if your vehicle's air-conditioning unit is struggling to cool down the vehicle, then do get it fixed immediately.