In this guide, we’ll cover some key safety tips when driving your mobility scooter during heatwaves or extreme temperatures – from sun safety to tips to keep you cool.
It’s that time of year where warmer days are upon us – and the inevitable peak heatwave weather is due anytime. While UK heat waves are often short lived, that doesn’t make them anymore difficult to endure – and it’s easy to leave yourself vulnerable to sun stroke, sunburn, and more.
As a mobility scooter user, if you intend to continue using your scooter during intense periods of heat, there are a few things you can do
1. Stay Hydrated
A simple tip, but an important one. It’s incredibly easy to dehydrate when you’re in the usn for long periods of time – and many people are surprised by just how sick this can make you.
Always carry a bottle of water with you and drink regularly to avoid dehydration.
2. Wear Lightweight Clothing
Dress in loose, light-coloured clothing to help you stay cool and protected from the sun while out and about.
Travelling on your mobility scooter can lull you into a false sense of security with the slight breeze your scooter offers you – but if the sun is shining you can definitely be susceptible to sunburn!
3. Use Sun Cream
Again, another simple tip but well worth highlighting! Make sure you apply a high SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from sunburn when using your mobility scooter.
If you’ll be out for the day, take your sun cream with you to top up too.
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4. Plan Your Routes
If you’re vulnerable to heat exhaustion or sun exposure, choose shaded routes where possible to avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Avoid being out on hot streets for your entire journey if you can.
5. Avoid Peak Sun Hours
If you can, try to go out early in the morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler and the sun is less intense.
This may not be possible for anyone travelling for work or essential errands, but it’s a good rule of thumb to abide by if you’re getting out for some fresh air.
6. Check Your Battery
The heat can affect your mobility scooter’s performance – for example, it can cause your battery to overheat or deplete quicker.
So it’s important to be conscious of this and keep an eye on your battery to ensure you’re not stranded unexpectedly!
7. Wear Sunglasses
If it’s a bright sunny day, make sure you pack a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes and ensure your vision isn’t impeded by the sun glare.
You may also want to wear a hat to protect your face and create some shade when driving.
Keeping Your Mobility Scooter Safe In The Sun
In addition to keeping yourself safe in the sun while driving your mobility scooter, you can take some extra steps to prepare your scooter for use in the sun. For example:
- Invest in a sun shade
- Store your mobility scooter in the shade or indoors to it doesn’t overheat in the sun
- The summer heat can drastically impact your scooter’s tyres, so take care to check your tire pressure and look out for any wear and tear (such as cracks or bald spots) that may need replacing.
Stay safe when out on your mobility scooter – our mobility scooter insurance starts from just £38 a year (or £3.80 a month).
