With the summer months just around the corner, your schedule is probably full of extra activities from taking a family road trip to enrolling your kids in summer programs. As always, you’re likely to spend a lot of time in the car. Here are some tips to have a healthier summer commute:

Dress For the Weather

 

In the early summer months, the temperatures can be cool in the morning and sweltering in the afternoon. A full schedule rarely allows for a stop at home for a wardrobe change, so it’s important to have proper weather-related attire for everyone.

 

Wear layers and breathable fabrics to help your body stay cool as it gets hotter outside.

Don’t Forget the Sunscreen

 

Spend most of the day in the car? You probably think you can pass on putting on sunscreen. Think again. Even if you keep your sunroof closed, you can still get a sunburn while driving so don’t forget to apply sunscreen before you leave the house.

Ditch Distractions

 

During the school year, maybe you have the luxury of commuting alone but now have a summer of chauffeuring ahead of you. While spending time with your kids in the car is a great opportunity to bond, it can also be distracting.

 

Whether you are trying to adjust the dials on the air conditioning, set the GPS for directions to summer camp, or are stuck listening to tween music on the radio, distractions behind the wheel are always potentially dangerous. Make car rules and stick to them.

School Bus Safety

 

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Even though school is almost out for the year, there’s a good chance that your child may take the school bus during some summer-related activities, like sports or day programs. Don’t forget to talk to your child about school bus safety and how to stay safe when walking around or in front of a school bus.

 

Stay Hydrated, Eat Healthily

 

It’s easy to forget to drink water when you’re busy. While drinking an adequate amount of water is essential all year round, it’s essential during the warm summer months. Carry a refillable bottle with you (to fill up at all your stops) or fill a small cooler full of water.

 

As long as you’re using a cooler to store water, why not fill it with a few healthy snacks? Eating healthy, while on the road, will help you stay energized and in a better mood than if you were to hit drive-thrus for your meals.

Drive Defensively

 

Don’t forget to exercise safe driving when making your commute more healthy. When the weather is nice, people have a tendency to drive a faster and with little regard to others.

 

Additionally, hot weather can make drivers impatient and more prone to road rage. This is a good time to practice driving defensively and steer clear of drivers who are reckless.
Summer also marks a time for road construction season, so it’s important to be alert and attentive towards any road closures, detours, and an increase of congestion.