Hot weather increases the risk of a tire blowout. Arizona’s intense heat can cause the air inside the tire to expand, which quickly increases its pressure. Hot roadways and prolonged UV exposure can weaken rubber. Underinflated tires are at a higher risk of heat-related blowouts in Arizona. Barnett’s Towing can help if you’re dealing with an unexpected blowout on I-10, I-19, Loop 202, or other rural highways. We offer 24/7 emergency towing services throughout Southern Arizona. Here is our guide to safely handling tire blowouts in extreme heat.
Stay Calm, Don’t Brake, and Keep the Steering Wheel Firm
First, it’s crucial to know exactly how to handle a tire blowout in the moment, especially if you’re traveling at high speeds. Don’t slam on your brakes, as this can cause your vehicle to spin out. Instead, slowly and gently ease off the gas to allow your vehicle to come to a safe stop. Keep the steering wheel firm so that you can remain in control of the vehicle. When you have slowed down, guide your vehicle to the shoulder or side of the road and turn your hazard lights on.
Determine if You Need a Tow
If you don’t have a spare tire, you have more than one blowout or damaged tire, or the wheels and rims are damaged, you’ll need a tow truck. You should also call us if it isn’t safe to change the tire on the side of the road or if you don’t have the necessary tools. Call our trusted local 24-hour emergency towing company for fast service. While waiting, check the tire pressure on your remaining tires.
Keep Water and Sun Protection in Your Vehicle
Next, always be prepared for a breakdown in the summer heat. Keep water bottles, a hat, and sunscreen in your car so that you can stay safe while waiting for a tow. Even quick towing companies can take 20 minutes or more to arrive, which is plenty of time to become dehydrated and sunburnt.
Stay in Your Vehicle if Possible
During extreme heat, your best option is to stay in your vehicle with the A/C running. Trying to walk for help in the hot desert sun could lead to heatstroke. If you can’t safely stay in your vehicle, move to the shade or wait at a nearby business. However, make sure you can see your vehicle from where you are, or leave the hazard lights on and put a note on the windshield with the date and time and your location.
Call Barnett’s Towing for Quick Towing Services After a Blowout
If you’re searching for “towing near me” in Southern Arizona because you’re dealing with a flat tire, blowout, or breakdown, Barnett’s Towing can help. We offer reliable towing services for cars and trucks, as well as heavy-duty and specialty towing for semi trucks and other large vehicles. Our drivers operate throughout Southern Arizona, including Phoenix, Tucson, Willcox, and Sierra Vista. Call us today at 1-800-722-2302 or contact us online to reach one of our dispatchers.