THP warns drivers of overheating; offers tips on car fire prevention
JACKSON, Tenn. — Officials are urging drivers to keep an eye on their cars during the extreme temperatures West Tennessee has been seeing this summer.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol is warning drivers about oil levels and leaks in their cars. Officials say they have seen four to five car fires in the last few weeks.
THP said overheating played a part in the fires.
“You take an automobile that’s not used to the high interstate speeds and constant speeds like that and they get on I-40, and if you don’t properly maintain it you can see several that catch on fire, and they usually burn up by the time we get there,” THP Lt. Brad Wilbanks said.
Lt. Wilbanks said temperatures on the interstate can reach well into the triple digits.
“Out there on that interstate it’s probably 150 degrees, and then you throw in the 70 mph constant speeds — it’s hard, especially on older vehicles,” he said.
He said one way you can stay safe this summer is by checking your oil every time you get gas, which can save you in the long run.
“Simple steps like that as a precaution, and another thing hardly no one does is a $20 fire extinguisher that may save your car from burning to the ground,” Lt. Wilbanks said.
Officials said drivers also should be aware of their tires in the heat.
“The scariest thing about the summertime driving in this heat, 100-degree weather like it is, tires should be inflated properly. Fill your tires with nitrogen so they’ll run cooler and keep the air pressure up,” King Tire Owner Ricky King said.
King said before you take a long road trip, it can help with peace of mind to get your car checked out before you hit the road.
“Just swing by any of your local shops or our shops, our stores and we’ll be glad to do a visual check and look at things,” King said.
Officials also recommend keeping extra oil, water and a fire extinguisher in the car.
Authorities said if you notice smoking or smell anything funny while driving to pull over as soon as you can — it could be a sign of a fire.
The THP said for everyone’s safety, try to take an exit if you can rather than stopping on the side of the highway.
