Surviving the Heat During Your Journey: A Guide to Driving, Biking, and Travelling
Navigating Temperatures in Gridlock: Strategies for Cars, Bikes, and Trains amid Summer Congestion - Navigating Transportation Amidst Summer Sizzle: Suggestions for Coping with Sweltering Motorized Commutes
Are you prepared for the first heatwave of the season? Even when the weather is scorching hot, work, school, and daily errands don't stop. Here are some tips to help you navigate through the heat.
🚗 Before Driving:The German automobile club, ADAC, suggests some precautions for a comfortable car ride.
- Light, airy clothing is recommended, especially to prevent burns on leather seats.
- Park your car in a shaded area, using covers when parking outside.
- Air out the car before driving by opening doors and windows to release hot air.
- Apply sunscreen to protect your skin, and stay hydrated with at least 3 liters of water per day. Remember to keep water for pets as well.
- Cover the side windows of your car with suitably reflective blinds or curtains for children.
🚗 During the Car Ride:
- Adjust your air conditioning to a comfortable level, not too cold, and avoid focusing the airflow directly on your body. Use the recirculation mode for quick cooling.
- Never leave children or pets unattended in the car, even with a slightly open window. The car's interior can reach dangerous temperatures as high as 50°C in just 30 minutes with temperatures as low as 34°C outside.
- Travel during cooler hours, and plan enough breaks to provide shade and refreshment.
🚂 Travelling by Train and Bus:
- The German Railway Company anticipates heat periods by ensuring a robust infrastructure and installing water supplies at major stations, if necessary.
- Modern vehicles have more powerful air conditioning systems that function up to 54°C. Most ICE, Intercity, and regional trains are equipped with air conditioning.
- Passengers should be well-prepared with water and snacks, and light clothing. When travelling by train, allow sufficient time to avoid rushing in the heat.
- If the bus gets too hot, consider getting off a stop early and walking the rest of the way, provided the current outdoor temperature is cool enough.
🚴 While Cycling:
- Similar safety and comfort precautions apply to cycling: stay hydrated, wear breathable clothing, use sun protection, and avoid leaving your bike in direct sunlight.
- Shift your outings to early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower, and plan enough breaks.
- Opt for shaded routes when possible.
- Check tire pressure and bring essential tools for repairs.
- Know your body's limits, recognizing signs of heat exhaustion such as dizziness, nausea, and headache.
- Take cool breaks under shaded areas or use cooling aids like damp cloths on your head, neck, and wrists.
- Use sunglasses and a helmet that allows ventilation slits. Take off the helmet during breaks.
- Consider alternative routes to avoid overheated asphalt and cars with idling engines.
🚗 ADAC🌡 Heatwave🚴 Cycling🚌 Bus
The Commission, despite the focus on protecting workers from ionizing radiation, has also proposed a directive on the approximation of laws related to heat-related risks during lifestyle activities such as home-and-garden work or sports. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle even during a heatwave requires careful planning, like using light, airy clothing as recommended by ADAC for both driving and cycling.
