Staying Alert While Driving
One in five Americans has dozed
off while driving, according to the American Automobile Association.
80 percent of Americans falsely believe they can predict when
they are about to fall asleep. In fact, researchers report that
tired drivers can fall asleep without warning. Often sinking into
short five-second sleep bursts called microsleeps. In five seconds,
at 55 mph, a car will travel more than the length of a football
field. Scary, isn't it?
Here are a few tips for staying
alert while driving:
-
Avoid taking medication, such as cold remedies,
that make you drowsy.
-
Never drink and drive.
-
Sip a caffeine-containing drink, such as cola,
as a pick-me-up.
-
Eat a piece of hard candy because low blood
sugar can cause drowsiness.
-
Pull off to the side of the road and stop when
you feel tired. If you don't feel safe, go to a well-lit exit
or gas station. Do some stretching exercises to stimulate blood
flow to your brain and to relax your muscles. Take a short catnap
if necessary.
-
If you stare at one spot for too long, you could
become hypnotized. Vary what you look at. Check mirrors. Make
a conscious effort to be aware of surroundings.
-
Keep the temperature in the car cool because
being warm can make you nod off. Open a window for fresh air.
-
Turn on the radio and sing along. (You don't
have to be good).
-
Strike up a conversation with a passenger. Music
or conversation can help you stay alert.
