Keeping Cool on That Hot Summer Drive

State Farm reminds you to be prepared before you hit the road this Canada Day long weekend

Aurora, Ontario.  June 29, 2011.  – The excitement builds as the long weekend approaches. Did you forget to pack your swimsuit, how about a few more bags of ice, do you have mosquito repellant?

What about the kids? Are they, or more importantly you, ready to tackle a 2 hour drive jammed in the minivan? Are their iPods loaded up with the latest tunes, do they have games, books, activities to occupy them on the journey? Did they remember to “go” before you set out?

It seems most of us care more about what we’re going to pack into our vehicles for that long weekend or summer getaway trip as opposed to what our cars, trucks, or vans need to get us there.

Summer Checklist

Before heading out on that long, hot drive review this vehicle checklist to ensure you arrive at your location safely.

• Fluids – Test the antifreeze/coolant. (A simple and inexpensive antifreeze tester works great.) Be sure your engine oil has been changed recently and your transmission fluid is reddish-pink. (Engine oil should be changed every 5000 kilometres and transmission fluid every 70,000 kilometres.)
• Tires – If you’re still using winter tires, take them off. Winter tires have a much softer tread and will erode quickly in the heat. Check your air pressure every 3 fill-ups or once a month. Tire pressure can affect gas mileage, comfort and safety. Low or high tire pressure can be a dangerous and cause blow ups. Check the tread depth and look for uneven wear. Do not neglect the spare tire. Make sure it’s inflated and in good shape. If possible, replace those puny, temporary spares with a full-sized one.
• Mechanics – Check your engine hoses and belts for cracks and wear. Be sure your battery is in good condition and change your windshield wipers twice per year.
• Cargo – Pack smartly. Cargo can move around easily, especially when negotiating turns or bumpy roads. Visibility is essential to safe driving; don’t place obstacles in your blind spots and try to keep your rear window clear. Make sure the kids have something to occupy their time.
• Towing – Boats and trailers come with their own perils. Make sure what you’re hauling does not exceed your vehicle’s towing capacity. Look it up in your owner’s manual. Have a professional check your trailer hitch and safety chain. You could have your trailer pulled off the road if the police deem it unsafe. Be sure you have the proper exterior mirrors. Most factory mirrors are not designed for long, wide trailers that seriously reduce your visibility.
• Emergency Kit – Keep a flashlight, flares and a first-aid kit in your vehicle. Jumper cables and a bottle of washer fluid come in handy too.

State Farm loves cars, trucks, and motorcycles. We insure tens of millions of them. All insurance companies are weary of the hazards of everyday commuting, the condition of those behind the wheel, and coping with what Mother Nature throws at us. It’s best to be prepared and recognize the mitigating factors related to the season you’re traveling in.

Stay safe on the roads this Canada Day weekend, and please don’t drink and drive.

About State Farm®

State Farm has been serving Canadians since 1938. State Farm and its affiliates are the fourth largest auto insurance provider, and the seventh largest property and casualty insurer in Canada. In addition to providing affordable car insurance rates, State Farm has more than 540 Canadian agents and 1300 employees providing insurance and financial services including mutual funds, life insurance, vehicle loans, critical illness, disability, home and auto insurance to our customers in Ontario, Alberta and New Brunswick. For more information, please visit statefarm.ca, join us on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, or see us on YouTube.