Heavy-duty towing is a complex and intricate process that requires specialized equipment and skilled towing operators to get the job done safely and efficiently. In Arizona’s extreme summer heat, heavy-duty towing is even more complex, as high temperatures and dry conditions make conditions much more hazardous and demand a speedy towing process to get drivers and equipment back to safety. Barnett’s Towing has the right equipment and expertise to offer heavy-duty towing services for oversized and overweight vehicles, along with heavy-weight vehicles that are stuck in tight or steep areas off the road. Here are our tips for ensuring a smooth and efficient towing experience if your heavyweight vehicle breaks down.
Move to Safety (if Possible) and Make Your Truck Visible
When heavy equipment breaks down, it may not always be possible to maneuver the vehicle to the nearest highway exit or even out of a lane of traffic. Get to the safest location possible and then make your vehicle visible to other drivers by turning on hazard lights and placing reflective triangles or cones around the truck. Avoid the use of flares, as these may quickly ignite brush fires in dry, hot conditions. Instead, use reflective or LED-powered warning devices.
Be Prepared for Heat
Before hitting the road in Arizona, you should be prepared with an Extreme Heat Road Kit. The Arizona Department of Transportation recommends packing sun protection, such as sunscreen, an umbrella or pop-up tent for shade, a wide-brimmed hat, and loose-fitting clothing that is made from lightweight natural fibers like cotton or linen. You should also bring plenty of drinking water and electrolyte beverage powder to stay hydrated. During extreme heat, the inside of your truck cab may become too hot without the use of air conditioning. Exiting the vehicle and seeking or creating a shaded area is recommended.
Inspect Your Equipment and Load
Before your tractor trailer, bus, or RV is towed, you should check for any damaged or loose parts and leaking fluids. Then, check your load for damage and secure any items that may have shifted during transport. Lock and secure any parts of your equipment that could move while the vehicle is being towed. Remember that working in the heat can cause you to become exhausted and overheated quickly. While you do want to get your vehicle ready for towing, you should also take breaks as needed and continue drinking plenty of water.
Double Check Weight and Dimensions
It is critical that you provide accurate weight and dimension info to our dispatchers when you call for a tow. This ensures that we send the right equipment to get the job done.
Provide Clear Details to Your Towing Dispatcher
When you call Barnett’s Towing, be prepared with details like your exact location, the nature of your cargo, the condition of the vehicle, and any environmental hazards. Providing clear and accurate details ensures that the right equipment is dispatched to your location, preventing any possible delays that might keep you in the heat for much longer.
Barnett’s Towing can handle even the most specialized towing jobs in Arizona, and our team is on-call 24/7 to provide emergency service when you need it. When you hit the road, keep our contact info handy so that you always know who to call when something goes wrong.