With consecutive days of temperatures nearing or exceeding 100 degrees, the Idaho Transportation Department (ITD) is urging motorists to prepare themselves and their vehicles for traveling in the extreme heat.
ITD maintenance teams across North Idaho are taking proactive measures by actively checking on vehicles pulled over to the shoulder of the highway. This extra diligence aims to ensure the safety and well-being of drivers during record heat, as being stranded can quickly turn dangerous in these conditions.
“When temperatures get this high it can quickly become unsafe for our crews to be working either inside machines or out in the scorching afternoon sun so often times we will end our normal operations early and spend the last few hours of our shift on routine patrols making sure stranded motorists are safe too. We urge all drivers to take necessary precautions and plan their trips wisely,” Foreman Marc Johnson said.
Alongside these actions, ITD encourages motorists to take these steps when hitting the road in triple-digit temperatures:
- Top off coolant levels if needed.
- Check tires and tire pressure to reduce the chances of a blowout on hot roads.
- Make sure to have a spare tire for your vehicle.
- Pack extra water.
- Completely fill your gas tank, as the engine uses more fuel when the air conditioner is running.
- Pack an emergency travel kit filled with snacks, sunscreen, and a first-aid kit for unexpected delays.
- Look before you lock. Never leave children or animals unattended in vehicles.
By following these tips and benefiting from our maintenance team’s vigilant efforts, motorists can navigate Idaho’s highways safely during periods of intense, prolonged heat.