The best way to stay alert and focused while on the road is by getting a sufficient amount of sleep.
Trucking requires carrying a heavy load physically, mentally, and emotionally. One of the most important things that you do every day while trucking is to drive safely to keep the people around you on the road safe. In order to do that, truckers need to stay awake, alert, and focused. The long hours spent trucking on the road can make this difficult, however, so sometimes you need some handy tips to help you. Read on for some of these tips for staying awake and alert on the road so that everyone stays safe.
Get Those Z’s Before Trucking
The best way to stay awake and aware on the road is to get enough sleep. That is easier said than done, especially if you’re sleeping in your rig. Develop a sleep routine for when you’re on the road that gets you ready for sleep so that you get better rest. This could include some meditation, soothing music, or a specific snack or drink before you lay down. Try to also make sure your sleeping area is as dark as possible and as quiet as it can be.
Be Goldilocks With Your Caffeine
Caffeine keeps you awake, but don’t over do it especially while trucking. Having it too late in the day may result in interrupted sleep that makes you even more tired the next day. This then becomes a bad cycle of being more tired and consuming more caffeine. Keep it in moderation and cut back or stop a few hours before bed.
Fit In Time For Exercise
Physical movement is key to a healthy body that can rest. If you’re sitting all day, you need to work in time for moving your body and exercising your muscles. This will improve your mood, regulate your sleep system, and make life easier in general.
Improve Your Diet
Diet also plays a role. It can be hard to eat healthy on the road, so make time to pack healthy snacks to have in your truck. Make sure that you’re getting enough protein and fiber to carry you through your day, not just empty carbs.
Know Your Trucking Route
Just like you need a pre-sleep routine, you also need a pre-drive routine that includes knowing your route, planning for breaks, and checking your truck parts for safety before you leave. Having a routine gives you peace of mind and makes it easier to focus on the road.
Play Some Tunes
If you do start to feel groggy, play upbeat music. If it makes you fell like dancing, it will help keep you mind and body awake and paying attention to the road until your next break (which should be soon).
Baltimore Freightliner-Western Star for all Your Trucking Needs!
Whether you are looking to upgrade your fleet to tow trucks or simply interested in the latest trucking technology, you can rely on Baltimore Freightliner-Western Star. We have provided top-notch service for the trucking industry for 30 years and would love to assist you in buying a new top-of-the-line truck, finding the specialty parts you need, or repairing your truck. Give us a call toll-free at 800-832-7278 or locally at 410-685-4474, or contact us online. To find out more about what we are up to, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
Tags: road safety, truck safety, trucking