09 August 2024
As the Met Office predicts heatwave temperatures into the start of next week, The AA is advising drivers to be well prepared before setting off for journeys.
The highest temperatures are expected in parts of central, east and southeast England and are expected to peak on Monday at over 30°C.
With the temperatures predicted, the inside temperature of a car could exceed an oven-like 60°C so it’s important not to leave pets or children in the car unattended even for short periods of time.
“Carry plenty of water – at least one litre per person travelling. Keeping yourself and other occupants hydrated can help lower body temperatures in hot weather."
Setting off as early in the morning as possible can reduce the chances of your engine overheating as the air temperature is reduced at this time of the day. Road surfaces are also likely to be cooler – meaning that your car’s tyres are less likely to reach temperatures high enough for pressures to increase and cause blowouts.
During hot weather make sure you carry enough water to keep yourself and your occupants hydrated.
Overheated engines are one of the most likely causes of a roadside breakdown in very hot weather. Make sure that your vehicle’s cooling system is in good shape by having it checked by a mechanic.
Check your car before setting off. Analysis of breakdown data across this summer so far show that many could have been avoided with the top three breakdowns caused by tyres, the 12 volt battery and engine problems.
Whilst some of the country is basking in high temperatures there is also a warning of heavy rain and thunderstorms for some Sunday night into Monday. The areas which this looks likely to affect are parts of Wales, northern England, Northern Ireland and southern and eastern Scotland. The AA’s latest advice for driving in heavy rain and thunder is here.
If you do breakdown knowing your exact location helps us get to you quicker – what3words is the easiest way to describe any precise location. It’s also twice as fast to report a breakdown on our app than it is to call us.
Edmund King, AA president, said: “High temperatures can be dangerous if you breakdown or get stuck in congestion. Ensure you have enough fuel or electric charge to keep your air-conditioning running. Driving outside the hottest part of the day is advisable.
“Be aware of the dangers and never leave children, the elderly and animals in over-heated vehicles. Be smart and plan journeys accordingly, be careful and keep car keys on your person, and be prepared should you have to stop for an extended period in the sun.
“Carry plenty of water – at least one litre per person travelling. Keeping yourself and other occupants hydrated can help lower body temperatures in hot weather. If the worst should happen, you can keep yourself and those with you topped up with cool water while waiting for help to arrive.”