HOW TO STAY SAFE WHEN DRIVING IN A HEATWAVE

Top tips for you:

1. Never leave a young, elderly or vulnerable person alone in a car. Even with the window left open, the temperature inside the car can end up being double the outside temperature.

2. Even with a sun-visor and window open, you shouldn't leave your pet locked in a vehicle. As with children, dogs can suffer from heatstroke so are unable to cool themselves, and this can have fatal consequences.

3. Always check the temperature of your child's car seat. The uncovered buckles of car seats can reach such high temperatures they can cause second degree burns.

4. Dehydration can be as dangerous as alcohol. Severe symptoms can cause dizziness, fainting and pose a risk to drivers. Previous research from Loughborough University has found during summer there is a 146% increase in driver errors due to dehydration. Symptoms can include slower reaction times, loss of focus and muscle cramps - putting drivers and others at risk.

Top tips for your car:



1. Fluid levels: You should check your car's fluid levels every few months and before heading off on a longer trip. Remember to check the coolant, engine oil and windscreen wiper fluid.



2. Tyres: Check both your pressure and tread before heading off on any long trips. If your car still has winter tyres, book your tyre change as soon as possible. The heat can cause over-inflation and put you at risk of a blowout.



3. Summer car kit: You should always have a standard kit in your car with a warning triangle, reflective jacket, first aid kit, phone charger, blanket and your car's registration documents. For summer, make sure you always have plenty of water, sunglasses, sunscreen, sunshades and some non-perishable food in the car.



4. Windscreen wipers: British weather is unpredictable, even in summer. Check your wipers and make sure they're in the best shape for any summer rainstorms. Summer is also a notorious time for bugs and other insects. Keep your windscreen and lights clean and free of bugs so you always have good visibility.