Nailing hot weather commutes: Car, bike, or train, we've got your back
Driving a car? Here's what you need to know
Enduring Gridlock: Strategies for Staying Cool in Vehicles, Bicycles, and Trains during Heatwaves - Navigating Commuting in Summer Heat: Strategies for Safety in Vehicle, Bike, and Rail Travel
It's sweltering out, but the work grind doesn't stop! How to get through that classic heat-stuck dilemma? The ADAC, Europe's largest automobile association, has some hot tips for you.
What's the deal with prep before hitting the road?
To ensure your car ride goes smoothly, the ADAC advises:
- Sport breezy, light garb (especially on leather seats, keep long pants or towels handy to avoid burns).
- Park your ride in a cool locale, like a garage or under a tree, or slap on some covers to save your ride from the scorching sun.
- Before heading out, remember these hacks: air out your vehicle by opening up doors and windows, keeping your skin protected (lather up with sunscreen), and stocking up on H2O (up to three liters per day) and light snacks to prevent those pesky circulatory issues. Fido will appreciate some water too!
Traveling with kids? Safety first! ADAC suggests fitting side windows with blinds or roller shades for baby's optimum comfort.
While on the road…
More tips can help make your drive a breeze:
- Air conditioning at the right temp: The ADAC recommends no freezing blast and avoiding directly blasting cool air onto your bod. To quickly cool down, try recirculation mode.
- Never leave kids or pets in a car! Even with a side window slightly open, temperatures inside the car can soar dangerously high in minutes, reaching up to 50°C after 30 minutes and over 60°C in the blazing sun.
- Early birds catch the cooler breeze. Travel during the cooler morning or evening hours. Planning enough breaks, providing shade, and monitoring traffic will guarantee a safe, relaxed arrival.
Taking the train or bus? This is how you roll
The German Railway Company (DB) is gearing up for those steamy weather periods. They're prepping organizationally, technically, and personally – boasting a robust infrastructure and offering emergency water supplies at major stations if needed.
The DB claims their new vehicles pack a punch when it comes to air conditioning, functioning effectively up to 54°C. Almost all their ICE and Intercity fleets, along with 96% of vehicles in regional transport, are equipped with air conditioning.
Ensure your survival in the hot seat by packing your own H2O, snacks, and rocking those light, breezy outfits. Plan ample time to avoid rushing under the sun and consider hopping off a stop early to stroll if the heat becomes too intense.
By bike? These rules apply too
Similar rules apply to cycling: stay hydrated, stock up on snacks, guard your skin from the sun, and avoid parking your cycle in direct sunlight due to that scorching seat. Cycle when it's coolest, remember to take breaks, and consider an alternative route to steer clear of sweltering asphalt near idling vehicles.
Sunglasses serve double duty – they safeguard your peepers and also keep pesky flies at bay. A properly ventilated helmet is your best bet to combat too much sun on your dome. Get off your bike and take a breather whenever you can!
Top line
Navigating hot travel with a car, bike, or public transportation requires a well-thought-out plan, smart use of cooling systems, and a sprinkle of safety precautions. Keep these pointers in mind for a sweat-free adventure!
The Commission, understanding the importance of a safe work environment, has also adopted a proposal for a directive on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to ionizing radiation during their lifestyle, both at home-and-garden and while traveling to work.
While discussing the precautions to take during hot weather commutes, it is also essential for workers to follow radiation safety guidelines in their everyday lives to ensure overall personal protection.
