Summer Safety: Tips for Protecting You and Your Equipment From High Heat

When summer temperatures reach their peak, it not only makes working outside in the sun more difficult, it can also be more dangerous. Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to beat the heat and protect yourself and your equipment from extreme weather. Read on to discover recommendations that will help you stay cool and comfortable on the hottest days the season has to offer.

5 Ways to Protect Your Equipment From Extreme Heat

Your tractor is built to handle some of the toughest conditions your land has to offer. However, there are some preventative measures you should take to protect your equipment in high heat. Here’s how you can help your tractor work more effectively on scorching summer days.

Clean Your Screens and Filters

Maintaining adequate airflow is essential to preventing your tractor from overheating. When you’re working out in the elements, you may be surprised how quickly screens and filters on components like the radiator can become clogged with dirt and debris. Each day before you get started, do a quick check on these parts. They can easily be cleaned by gently wiping away dirt with a shop rag. If you notice damage to screens or filters, they should be replaced immediately.

Closely Monitor Coolant Levels

Coolant is one of your most effective barriers against soaring temperatures. The liquid absorbs and releases heat from the engine, helping to maintain ideal operating temperatures. During the hottest months, an inspection of coolant levels and hoses should be done daily. Always ensure your coolant levels are full, and remove any blockages that prevent it from flowing throughout the system at maximum capacity.

Additional Oil Changes

When your tractor is working overtime in extreme heat, you could be burning through engine oil more quickly. This means you may need to perform additional oil changes or top it off on a regular basis to protect vital engine components. Additionally, pay close attention to the consistency of the oil. Dirty oil is less effective at lubricating and cooling the engine, leading to overheating and other issues.

Track the Engine Temperature

Help keep your tractor running strong by simply tracking the engine temperature throughout the day. If the gauge starts to creep into the upper limits, take a break and give the tractor time to cool down. Taking this step will not only help your tractor in the short term, it will also lead to a longer lifespan.

Seek Out Shade

Whenever you have the chance, remove your tractor from the direct heat of the sun. Stopping for a lunch break? Park it in the shade under a tree. Need to fuel up? Bring it back into the barn or garage for some temporary relief. If it’s safe to do so, you may even want to pop the hood open to let more heat escape during these times. The more you can limit exposure, the better.

3 Ways to Protect Yourself From Extreme Heat

Keeping your tractor cool doesn’t do much good if you’re too overheated to work. Keep these tips in mind to protect yourself from extreme heat.

Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate

Much like coolant is critical to keeping your tractor cool, water is needed to keep our bodies cool in high heat conditions. When you’re out in the elements, drink water on a consistent basis, even if you’re not thirsty or it feels like you’re consuming more than you usually do. Once you do start to get thirsty, it’s too late and your body will be playing catch up all day.

Start Early or Work Late

According to The Old Farmer’s Almanac, the hottest time of the day is around 3 p.m. This is because the incoming heat to the earth has been building up faster than the outgoing heat. Once the sun starts to drop, this balance changes and things begin to cool down. Whenever possible, try to get an early start to the day and avoid subjecting your body to these temperatures. Alternatively, take a mid-afternoon break and get back to work once the peak has passed.

Watch for Warning Signs

Sometimes there’s no other option besides working through the heat. Should you find yourself in this circumstance, stay in tune with your body and know the warning signs of heat-related illness. Common symptoms include:

Muscle cramps or spasms
Weakness or fatigue
Excessive sweating
Rapid heartbeat
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness or lightheadedness

Many of these are a precursor to heat stroke, a potentially fatal condition. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, stop working and move to a cool place out of the sun. Continue to hydrate, avoid strenuous activity for a few hours, and help your body regulate with a cool shower or wet towel on your forehead or neck.

Connect With Yanmar

At Yanmar, we want to help you be at your most productive. From hard-working equipment like tractors and UTVs to educational resources like this article, we’re here to share our expertise and support you. Please don’t hesitate to connect with us online or give us a call at 678-551-7369.

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