If you live in Arizona, you don’t need us to tell you that warm weather is still here. Triple-digit temperatures are par for the course during the summer months, and truck drivers who operate in the Copper State must take extra care to stay cool on the road. As you go through truck driving school and prepare to earn your CDL in Tucson, keep these tips in mind on how to stay cool once you start driving a big rig in Arizona.
Protect Yourself from the Sun
Even though you are inside the cabin, the sun coming through the front and driver’s side window can heat you up and expose you to harmful UV rays. To stay cool and limit the amount of ultraviolet rays you are exposed to, wear long sleeves and put sunscreen on your hands and face. Window covers can also help block out the sun.
Stay Hydrated
It seems obvious, but it can be easy to forget to stay hydrated while on the road. A good rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in ounces every day. We recommend truck drivers invest in a large, insulated jug or water bottle to have plenty of cold water available during the day. You may need to stop more often to use the restroom, but at least you won’t overheat.
Dress Comfortably
You may be required to work outside when it’s hot to hook up or detach a trailer, so be sure to dress comfortably in lightweight, breathable clothing to prevent overheating. If you are comfortable in shorts and a t-shirt, remember to put on sunscreen to protect your skin and stay cool. Also, you’ll need to drink more water if you sweat to stay properly hydrated.
HDS Truck Driving Institute has served Southern Arizona since 1991, so we are uniquely qualified to prepare our students for the rigors of driving trucks in Arizona. We are a fully-accredited truck driving school and licensed by the Arizona Department of Transportation. If you would like to attend Arizona’s best CDL school, call HDS Truck Driving Institute toll-free at (877) 205-2141.
