As temperatures in the Mid-Atlantic region hover in the mid-90’s, AAA Mid-Atlantic experienced a 151 percent increase in the number of roadside assistance calls across the area compared to a normal summer day with no extreme heat.
The auto club received 13, 568 calls on Monday, August 10 with the majority of calls, 49%, for towing while 25% of the calls were related to car battery issues. Roadside assistance calls in Maryland spiked nearly as high yesterday – 149% - compared to an average summer day. The auto club handled over 3,400 calls from Maryland members alone on Monday.
A few special precautions will go a long way to ensure continued safe driving when temperatures soar:
- Summer heat is as tough on vehicle batteries as the coldest winter weather. Batteries more than two years old should be tested by a qualified technician to ensure they have the starting power to handle the stress of extreme temperatures.
- Motor oil plays an important role in keeping the engine cool, so check your vehicle’s oil level and condition. If you’re driving under extreme conditions, such as over mountains or towing a heavy trailer, switch to motor oil with higher viscosity. Check the owner’s manual for specific oil recommendations.
- Check air conditioning system performance. If needed, have it serviced by a qualified technician. Do not use non-approved substitute refrigerants. Check the owner’s manual for approved types.
- Inspect antifreeze/coolant level and condition. Ensure the proper 50/50 mixture of water and coolant is present.
- If your car overheats, never attempt to remove the radiator cap until the engine has cooled. Coolant in the radiator is under pressure and can flash into steam, causing severe burns.
- Other under-the-hood components such as belts and hoses also are stressed by extreme heat and should be regularly inspected. Be sure the vehicle engine is turned off before inspecting these items.
To find a business your can trust to service your vehicle look for a BBB Accredited Business decal on display at the place of business and check the expiration date or visit www.bbb.org
Since even the best maintained vehicles can break down, motorists should equip their vehicles with emergency kits containing at least the following items:
- Drinking water
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- Warning devices (flares or reflective triangles)
- Jumper cables
- First aid kit
Because temperatures inside parked cars can quickly reach dangerous levels:
- Never leave children or animals unattended in a car – not even for a short period of time. Outside air temperatures in the nineties can rise to 125 degrees inside the vehicle very quickly and can cause brain damage or death.
- When parked, use a sun shield to cover the windshield to minimize heat buildup and to help protect the car’s interior. Cover metal and plastic parts on seat belts and child safety seats to prevent burns.
- Open the vehicle’s doors and let the interior cool for a few minutes before entering.
- Remember to remove electronics such as cell phones, iPods, etc. from your vehicle, as the high heat can drain the batteries and possibly damage internal components.
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