ICBC is asking drivers for who may be traveling down to Kamloops or the Okanagan to take the necessary precautions due to the recent heatwave in the province.
Daytime highs are expected to reach anywhere between 35 to 38 degrees Celsius in those areas over the next week.
Spokeswoman Joanna Linsangan says driving in these sweltering conditions could negatively impact motorists.
“The heat can really zap the energy out of you. Drowsy driving really affects your response time, your judgment, your vision and can also dehydrate you and that can affect your concentration, your mood and reaction time.”
The hotter weather can also have a negative impact on children and pets. “Never ever leave them alone in your car for any amount of time especially in this type of weather and while you’re driving one thing that you can do to keep your backseat passengers cool is to install some window shades,” says Linsangan.
If you plan on going a road trip, picking an appropriate travel time should be considered.
“Travelling in the morning or in the evening could be better for you, your passenger and also your car’s engine – stay hydrated, take frequent breaks and also check your tire pressure and that includes the spare(tire)in your trunk as well.”
Visit drivebc.ca to plan your route, check road conditions and planned construction projects.