Triple-A says the extreme heat in Iowa is causing a lot of cars to conk out. While it’s important to have a winter survival kit in your car during the cold months, motor club spokeswoman Rose White suggests it’s just as vital to pack yourself a hot weather survival kit.
White says: "We are seeing a high number of motorists needing roadside assistance due to common hot weather-related problems including tire blowouts, ruptured hoses, broken belts and radiator leaks. When traveling in the extreme heat, Triple-A advises motorists to place a small cooler in the passenger compartment and fill it with bottled water and ice packs."
Just like the Boy Scouts, White says Iowa motorists need to "be prepared" for any emergency, particularly a breakdown. White says to "place a few umbrellas in your car or truck which can be used for shade protection if your vehicle breaks down on a highway. When traveling, make certain your cell phone is fully charged. If you see a stranded motorist and you’re unable to provide assistance, please call the Highway Helpline at 1-800-525-5555 or dial star-55 on your cell phone."
While blankets would offer warmth during the wintertime, she says blankets can be used during the heat of summer to cover your seats, safety belt latches, steering wheel and child safety seats, to prevent getting scorched when you sit down. She says having a gallon of antifreeze in the trunk would be a good idea, too.
White says to "Keep a close eye on your temperature gauge. If the warning light appears, or if the gauge indicates excessive heat, pullover to a safe area and turn off the engine." She says to avoid getting stranded and expensive repairs, all motorists should have their vehicles inspected by a certified technician.