2025-07-31
How can truck drivers stay fit and focused despite the summer heat? According to Kögel Trailer GmbH, a few tips can help.
- Drink enough: One should drink at least two to three liters of water or unsweetened beverages daily, as dehydration can lead to circulatory problems. Iced drinks should be avoided, as they add an extra strain on the circulatory system.
- Light eating: Several small, light meals throughout the day are ideal. Alcohol further weakens the circulatory system in the heat, so it should be completely avoided.
- Taking breaks in the shade: During breaks, use the shade to rest and relieve the circulatory system. Staying in direct sunlight should be avoided. If
- not possible: sunscreen, headgear, and sunglasses.
- Suitable clothing: Light clothing made of natural fibers or breathable functional materials helps the body regulate its temperature.
- Ensure concentration: Heat makes you tired, and reaction times decrease. To maintain concentration, sufficient sleep and regular short breaks in the shade can help. Kögel experts warn about microsleep, which poses a serious risk for drivers and other road users.
- Take body warning signals seriously: Caution is advised if you experience headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness, or nausea. If necessary, medical assistance can be sought, for example, via the free Doc Stop hotline.
And how can technology be reliably brought through the summer? In this context, the experts at Kögel
Trailer GmbH provide the following tips:
- Keep an eye on tires: Tires should be checked for damage and cracks before every trip. High temperatures increase the risk of tire blowouts and fire hazards. Tire pressure should be checked on cold tires – too low pressure leads to higher wear. Monitoring systems like Kögel Telematics can assist.
- Ensure cooling: Regular checking of the coolant level is essential to prevent engine overheating. The air conditioning should also function properly, as failure can quickly turn the driver's cabin into a sauna. Ideally, the temperature difference between the inside and outside should not exceed six degrees Celsius. Modern telematics systems continuously monitor engine and coolant temperature.
- Properly stretch tarps and covers: Heat causes tarps to expand. To avoid material damage, they should not be pulled or stretched with force. When tightening, it's advisable to leave some slack to compensate for temperature fluctuations.
- Avoid heat build-up: According to the Kögel expert team, extreme temperatures can develop under tarps or in closed loading areas. Therefore, good ventilation is important—especially with self-igniting or heat-sensitive cargo like chemicals or flammable substances. Additional protective measures are required.
Both regarding personal health and technology, special caution is advised in summer temperatures. To remain efficient and safe on the road, regular technical checks, sufficient fluid intake, suitable clothing, effective sun protection, and restful breaks are
