Five things you should have in your car during heatwave according to experts

Wales Online

4 days ago

Five things you should have in your car during heatwave according to experts
It comes as the Met Office has forecast temperatures of up to 33°C in Wales
The RAC has revealed the top five things you should have in your car when driving during a heatwave. It comes as the Met Office has forecast temperatures of up to 33°C in Wales this weekend.
The breakdown and insurance specialists say that soaring temperatures are causing an significant increase in vehicle breakdowns with 20% more failures than usual for this time of year reported.
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The RAC says that the combination of extreme heat and drivers making the most of the summer weather over the weekend will put further strain on cars and vans making breakdowns more likely.
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And it says you should have the following five items in your car to make sure you are prepared for all eventualities.
Emergency breakdown kit
The RAC says: "Ensure you're always prepared for a breakdown by having an emergency kit in your vehicle. This should include a first aid kit, hi-vis vests (for the driver and all of the passengers), and a warning triangle."
Cold drinks
"Pack lots of water and soft drinks," the RAC advises.
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"Driving in hot weather can also result in dehydration, which affects your concentration levels and coordination."
Phone charger and power bank
The RAC says: "If your car breakdowns you'll need your phone to call for help. Keep a spare phone charger in your vehicle. Many modern cars have USB sockets, which allows you to charge your phone while on the move."
Sunscreen
The RAC writes: "Protect yourself from sunburn by packing sunscreen. If you are driving with the windows open or own an open-top car then you can easily become burnt in the summer sun."
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Cooler bag/box
"Keep your drinks and snacks cool by packing an insulated bag or box," the RAC advises.
"This will prevent your drinks and snacks from perishing in the heat."
RAC breakdown spokeswoman Alice Simpson said: 'We're seeing a surge in breakdowns as this latest period of hot weather takes hold with up to 20% more vehicles failing than expected at this point in July.
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'With above-average temperatures in many parts expected for the foreseeable future very high volumes of breakdowns will persist through this coming weekend and well into next week.
'Our teams are working incredibly hard to help thousands of stranded drivers every day but waiting times are longer as a result.
'Drivers should do whatever they can to avoid their vehicles letting them down in these conditions – oil and coolant levels, as well as tyres, must be checked before journeys are made.
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'If anything isn't right get the problem diagnosed by a mobile mechanic or reputable garage rather than running the risk of driving. Taking plenty of breaks on long journeys, to give themselves and their cars a rest, is also important.
'Staying safe in the heat, especially if a breakdown is unavoidable, should be in the mind of every driver.
'Carrying plenty of water for all passengers is a must as is keeping sunscreen and a sun hat or even umbrella to hand to reduce the ferocity of the sun. When waiting for assistance look for a safe location in the shade and well away from moving traffic."
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