PHOENIX – Temperatures are rapidly rising and schools are letting out, which means summer is here. And since summers in Arizona get really hot, the Arizona Department of Transportation wants to remind drivers to protect themselves and their vehicles this summer.

Governor Doug Ducey has proclaimed this week, May 23 - 27, as Heat Awareness Week. And for those traveling in and around Arizona this summer, ADOT has compiled some safety tips to help make sure you are prepared for soaring summer temperatures.

Make sure your vehicle is ready to beat the heat and won’t break down on a 110-degree day by doing the following:

• Test your battery, especially if it is more than 3 years old. Heat can zap batteries, and a dead battery could leave you stranded far from home.
• Check your coolant levels and top them off if necessary. If you are due for a coolant flush, consider getting that done before going anywhere too far away.
• Make sure your vehicle’s air conditioner is in good working order.
• Confirm that your tires are properly inflated and in good condition to reduce the risk of blowouts.
• Stock your vehicle with a first-aid kit, jumper cables and safety flares.

Finally, make sure you are prepared to endure the heat while traveling by planning your route in advance using az511.gov. Also, pack an emergency kit that includes things like sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat and an umbrella. Also a cooler with cold drinking water and healthy snacks. Finally, have a fully-charged cell phone and any necessary medications.

Find additional tips at azdot.gov/extreme-heat.

Wildfire season is one more reason for drivers to use extra care. 

Don’t let your vehicle be the cause of a wildfire. 

As warm, dry weather settles into our state, the Arizona Department of Transportation is urging drivers to use extra care with their vehicles to reduce the chance of igniting a wildfire. 

Motorists should take preventative measures to reduce the risk that a spark from a vehicle or trailer doesn’t result in dry vegetation catching fire. A few tips include:

• Dragging chains while something is being towed can cause sparks; Check and fasten the chains before starting your trip.
• Make sure nothing is hanging under your vehicle or dragging on the pavement.
• Check tire pressure before traveling. If a tire is with less air pressure, the tire can cause sparks.
• Do not park where there is tall grass since the heat from the bottom of the vehicle can cause a fire.

In some areas of the state, ADOT overhead message boards will carry wildfire safety reminders with some listing AM radio frequencies that offer more localized wildfire information. 

For more information on preventing brush fires, visit focusondriving.com. The Arizona Interagency Wildfire Prevention website wildlandfire.az.gov/ provides information about active fires.