As Hurricane Ian passes through the Caribbean and is heading towards Florida, their Governor has declared a state of emergency and we want to provide tips to equip you if you are trucking in Florida.
Here are some general tips that could help you at any point in trucking:
- Perform a vehicle inspection before leaving the truckload
- Prepare your rig with essentials for longer than expected – more snacks, food, games, water, etc.
- Practice open communication with dispatchers, other truckers, and those on the CB radio
Here are tips that will help specifically during hurricane season:
- Keep up with and watch weather & road conditions
- Pull over when you feel it becomes too windy
- Try to avoid flooded roads
- Prepare your rig with essentials for longer than expected – more snacks, food, games, water, etc.
- Expect delays and/or route changes and prepare accordingly
- Slow down more than usual on corners and ramps as they can be slippery
- Get ahead of the weather
- Equip your truck with the right necessities such as flashlights, emergency kits, extra batteries, a portable phone charger,
- Protective gear for cold weather such as gloves, warm clothing, and blankets
We hope this list begins to help those of you who are trucking in and through Florida. Do you have some of your own tips and tricks that have worked for you? If so, share below!