Health Tips for August 18

Health Tip: Stay Awake on the Road

Driving when you're tired raises your risk of getting into an accident. If you think you're too drowsy to continue driving, pull over and get some rest. But don't just stop on the side of the road. Get to the nearest hotel, or be sure to stop in a well-lit area, the U.S. National Safety Council advises.

The council offers these additional suggestions to avoid drowsy driving:

• Get plenty of sleep before your trip. Stick to a regular sleep schedule.
• Try not to drive between midnight and 6 a.m.
• Try to take long trips with someone else, and switch drivers regularly.
• Get on the road early in the day, and keep the car nice and cool to help you stay awake.
• Make frequent stops -- about every 100 miles or two hours. Walk around, get a little exercise or have a snack.
• Practice good driving posture -- head up, shoulders back and knees bent at about a 45-degree angle -- to help you stay awake.

Health Tip: Stay Safe on Slick Roads

It's easier to lose control of the wheel when roads are wet and slippery.

Always slow down and be particularly careful when driving in the rain, says the U.S. National Safety Council. Never hit the brakes hard to slow down; instead apply gentle pressure to the breaks to prevent locking and skidding. Also, take all corners slowly.

Keep your car in good shape to prevent skids and hydroplaning. The NSC recommends making sure tires are in good shape, with good tread and proper inflation. Get new tires when old ones wear, and steer clear of standing water on the roads.