Fleet management during extreme heat: how to keep drivers and vehicles safe

In the Netherlands, we are increasingly experiencing summer days when temperatures rise well above 30 degrees. This requires extra attention from drivers and fleet managers. However, by taking timely measures, you can prevent breakdowns, damage and unsafe situations. We’ve put together the most important tips for fleet owners and drivers.

Ensure you have the right summer equipment

Good preparation starts with clear communication to drivers. Inform them in advance about driving in high temperatures and provide practical tips. Bright sunshine and high temperatures can cause fatigue, loss of concentration and headaches. Fortunately, the solutions are quick and easy: carry plenty of drinking water, a fully charged mobile phone and a good pair of sunglasses.

Try to avoid journeys during the hottest hours of the day as much as possible. If that’s not possible, plan extra breaks, seek shade regularly and make sure you stay well hydrated.

Vehicles also suffer in the heat

It’s not just the driver who struggles during a heatwave – the car does too. You should therefore advise drivers to park their cars in the shade wherever possible. This prevents extremely high temperatures inside the car and means the air conditioning doesn’t have to work as hard.

Don’t set the air conditioning to the lowest setting straight away; let the car cool down gradually instead. This is more comfortable for the passengers and prevents unnecessary energy or fuel consumption. Just before you arrive, it can be pleasant to turn the temperature down slightly. This reduces the temperature difference with the outside.

What if you break down on the way? During the holiday period, it may take longer for the breakdown service to arrive due to high demand. In this situation, seek out the shade, create your own shade with an umbrella or parasol if necessary, and make sure you keep drinking plenty of water.

Take extra care in traffic jams

Extreme heat also puts greater strain on a car’s mechanical systems. Avoid driving in traffic jams where possible. In cars with internal combustion engines in particular, the engine and cooling system can be subjected to greater stress. You should therefore keep a close eye on any warning lights or the temperature gauge.

Also check your tyre pressure and coolant level regularly. Always check tyre pressure when the tyres are cold and ensure you maintain the recommended pressure. Another practical tip is not to overload the car any more than necessary. This is safer, reduces energy or fuel consumption and lessens the strain on the vehicle.

Drive on summer tyres in summer

For cars still fitted with winter tyres, summer is the perfect time to switch to summer tyres. Yes, the Netherlands has excellent roads, but winter tyres wear out more quickly in high temperatures and offer less grip. Summer tyres, on the other hand, ensure a shorter braking distance, better road holding and less wear and tear.

Bear in mind, too, that heatwaves often lead to heavier traffic heading for beaches and holiday destinations. Combined with fatigue and a loss of concentration, this also increases the risk of accidents. Good preparation helps to keep vehicles safe on the road and minimise breakdowns as much as possible.

Optimise fleet management with PrismaFleet

At PrismaFleet, fleet management is about more than just managing a fleet. By proactively informing drivers and managing vehicles optimally, we work together to ensure safe, efficient mobility. And a great summer, of course.

Curious to find out what PrismaFleet can do for your organisation? Request a no-obligation demo and discover how you can gain better control over your entire fleet.