OHIO, USA — The WTOL 11 Weather team has issued an ALERT DAY for Tuesday as extreme heat is forecasted with temps pushing into the mid-90s and feels like temperatures in the triple digits.
While it's important to keep yourself cool, AAA is urging Ohioans to also keep their vehicles cool during extreme heat.
AAA said when outside temps are 80 to 100 degrees, the inside of cars parked in direct sunlight can reach between 180 and 200 degrees in a matter of minutes. They said exposure to this heat is dangerous for children five and under, adults over 65, pregnant or nursing women, persons with disabilities or preexisting medical conditions and pets.
Besides the risk of heatstroke, AAA said it only takes 15 minutes for a child or pet to suffer life-threatening brain, liver and kidney injuries if left inside a hot vehicle.
AAA is urging motorists to ACT:
A - Avoid heatstroke by never leaving a child or pet in the car alone, "not even for a minute."
C - Create electronic reminders or leave something in the backseat that you will need when exiting the car, such as a cell phone, purse, wallet, briefcase or shoes. "Always lock your car and never leave car keys or car remote where children can get to them."
T - Take action and call 911 immediately if you notice an unattended child in a car
“Extreme temperatures pose a risk to drivers, their passengers and vehicles they drive, especially if their cars aren’t ready for the extreme heat,” Kara Hitchens, AAA spokeswoman said. “Many summertime breakdowns could be prevented with proper maintenance. That’s why it’s even more critical to ensure your vehicle is properly prepared to meet the summer heat.”
AAA said before hitting the road, test your battery, check all fluids, inspect your brakes and keep your tires at normal pressure. They said motorists should have the cooling system flushed and new coolant installed when recommended by the vehicle's manufacturer.
When on the road, AAA said to keep an eye on your gas, oil and engine temperature gauges. AAA also said don't tailgate the car ahead of you as your vehicle can suck in hot exhaust fumes, stressing a car's cooling system.
Should your car overheat, AAA said to pull off the road, immediately shut off the engine and allow the car to cool.
“For safety’s sake, every driver should have a well-stocked emergency kit that includes a mobile phone and car charger; a flashlight with extra batteries; a first-aid kit; drinking water; extra snacks/food for your travelers and any pets; battery booster cables; and emergency flares or reflectors,” Hitchens added.
