Highway Code rule drivers must follow during heatwave
Motorists who do not follow the rules could face hefty fines
Drivers have been told to follow a Highway Code rule as Wales experiences a heatwave
(Image: Getty Images )
With temperatures soaring in Wales, drivers have been warned of the Highway Code rule they must follow, as driving in hot conditions could put them and their passengers at risk of heatstroke. Graham Conway, managing director at Select Car Leasing, warns that the temperature inside a vehicle can rise significantly within minutes, even with the windows slightly open.
Heatstroke is an issue that people are increasingly concerned about, with searches for the condition increasing over 185 percent in the past month. It's for good reason that people are concerned about heatstroke, as it's a potentially life-threatening condition.
And Rule 237 of the Highway Code states that drivers are required to keep their cars well-ventilated to avoid drowsiness.
Select's Mr Conway said motorists and passengers should make sure they take on board fluids – with the NHS recommended at least six to eight glasses of water per day – even if it means more toilet stops on road trips.
He added: 'If you're stuck in traffic, driving a long distance, or your car's air conditioning isn't working properly, it's possible that you could experience heat stroke behind the wheel.
'Typically your body cools itself through sweating, but if you're dehydrated or sitting in a poorly-ventilated car, your body isn't able to cool itself down effectively.
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"This can quickly lead to symptoms of heatstroke which include headaches, dizziness, nausea, cramps, tiredness and weakness.
'And driving poses a particular problem when it comes to heatstroke. Many motorists will skimp on their fluid intake during long trips in order to limit the number of comfort breaks they need to take. But that tactic could be catastrophic for a person's health.
'The signs of heatstroke can come on quickly and once your concentration starts to slip, your ability to make quick decisions or even stay alert at the wheel is compromised, which increases the risk of accidents.
'According to Rule 237 of the Highway Code, drivers are required to keep their cars well-ventilated to avoid drowsiness. Drivers who fail to take the heat seriously while driving could also be hit with hefty fines, if they're found to be driving carelessly.
"Drivers could face a fine an unlimited fine and up to nine points on their licence for this offence.
'To ensure proper ventilation in your car, open all the windows slightly when you first get in the car to remove the trapped air. If you're stuck in traffic, rather use the recirculation button to allow your car to rather recirculate the cooler air in your car.
'However, if you're stuck in traffic for long periods, it's best to switch between AC and the recirculation button, as the recirculation button can decrease the oxygen levels in the car, which can also lead to drowsiness.
'For those who spend a lot of their time driving, it's always best to ensure that you have plenty of water available in your car and wear light clothing.
"If you notice signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke setting in while driving, pull over safely as soon as possible, turn off the engine, get out of the car into the shade, and rehydrate.'
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