When the UK gets hit by a heatwave, we all feel it, but for those who drive for work, the dangers can quickly add up. High temperatures don’t just make you sweaty and uncomfortable, they can seriously affect your ability to drive safely, impact your health, and even damage your vehicle.
If you or your team spend long hours behind the wheel for business, it’s essential to know how to handle the heat. At Fleet Service GB, we care about driver safety and wellbeing, that’s why our Driver Management programme and Wellbeing Workshop focus on key areas like nutrition, hydration, stress, and fatigue.
Why Driving in Heatwaves is Risky
Slower reaction times
Research shows that driving in temperatures around 35°C can slow your reaction times by up to 20% compared to cooler conditions. That means you’re more likely to make mistakes, and the consequences on a busy motorway or unfamiliar A-road can be serious.
Dehydration and fatigue
Spending hours in a hot car can quickly lead to dehydration, making you feel dizzy, tired or even faint. Dehydration also affects concentration and increases the risk of fatigue, which is one of the biggest causes of road accidents.
Glare and visibility issues
Bright sunlight can make it harder to see the road clearly. A dirty windscreen or poor-quality sunglasses can make glare even worse, putting you and other road users at risk.
Vehicle breakdowns
Hot weather puts extra strain on your vehicle, tyres can blow out, engines can overheat, and fluid levels can drop faster than normal. If you don’t do regular checks, you could end up stuck on the roadside in 30+ degree heat.
How to Stay Safe When Driving for Work in Hot Weather
Here are some simple, effective tips you can follow before and during your journey:
Do a vehicle check
- Check tyre pressure and tread depth
- Top up oil, coolant, and screen wash
- Look out for signs of wear on belts and hoses
Cool the car before setting off
Open doors for 30 seconds before switching the aircon on. This helps release trapped hot air and reduces the load on your system.
Wear the right gear
- Wear loose, breathable clothing
- Avoid flip flops, they’re dangerous for driving
- Use UV-blocking sunglasses (avoid category 4 lenses)
Stay hydrated
- Bring plenty of water, especially for long journeys
- Freeze a few bottles for refreshing cold drinks
- Dehydration can creep up fast, keep sipping throughout the day
Take regular breaks
- Stop every 2 hours, more often in extreme heat
- Get out, stretch, and cool down
- Plan your route with shaded rest stops if possible
Use sun protection
You’re still exposed to UV rays while driving. Use sunscreen or consider fitting UV-protective film on windows.
Be mindful of others
Bright sun behind you might mean you can see clearly, but oncoming drivers may not. Stay alert and give extra space to cyclists, walkers, and motorcyclists.
Hear what National Highways has to say here.
Don’t Forget Your Summer Emergency Kit
Having the right gear on hand could make all the difference if you break down or get stuck in traffic during a heatwave. Pack:
- Water and heat-resistant snacks
- Sunglasses and a hat
- Sunscreen
- Phone charger
- Any emergency meds
- Paper map (in case your phone dies)
FSGB Wellbeing Workshops: Help Your Drivers Beat the Heat
At Fleet Service GB, we offer a Wellbeing Workshop specifically designed for business drivers. We focus on:
- Nutrition: Eat well to keep energy levels stable
- Hydration: Stay topped up with water throughout the day
- Stress: Learn how to manage pressure behind the wheel
- Fatigue: Recognise the signs and know when to rest
Keeping your team fit, healthy, and alert isn’t just good for business, it could save lives.
FAQs About Driving for Work in a Heatwave
Is it illegal to drive in a heatwave?
No, but you must stay fit to drive. That includes being hydrated, alert, and properly dressed (safe footwear, no impaired vision from sunglasses, etc.).
How hot is too hot to drive in the UK?
There’s no legal limit, but extreme temperatures (30°C+) increase risks. Take extra precautions and avoid travel during peak heat if you can.
Can my employer make me drive in a heatwave?
Employers have a duty of care. If conditions are unsafe (e.g., faulty aircon, long hours with no breaks), speak up.
FAQs About Fleet Service GB
What is FSGB Driver Management?
Our Driver Management programme helps businesses monitor, support, and improve driver safety. We provide practical tools, training, and reporting for fleet managers and drivers.
What does FSGB’s Wellbeing Workshop cover?
It focuses on the four key areas that impact drivers: nutrition, hydration, stress, and fatigue, with practical advice for long-term health and safety on the road.
Final Thoughts
Heatwaves aren’t just uncomfortable, they’re dangerous, especially if you drive for a living. Take action now to protect yourself, your passengers, and your vehicle.
By planning ahead, staying hydrated, and using tips from this article and our Fleet Service GB Wellbeing Workshops, you can keep cool, stay focused, and avoid preventable risks during hot weather.
Stay safe and don’t let the heat beat you.
