The festive season is typically marked by thousands of Kenyans making the long and at times tedious trip to the countryside to get in touch with loved ones for the Christmas holidays. This period is typically marked by heavy traffic and heightened road risks due to long-distance travel.
But what can you do on an individual level to mitigate risks and safeguard your journey? For those using personal means, proper preparation of your vehicle could be the difference between a safe and frustrating trip.
Car Preparation Tips
One of the most basic, yet underrated, preparation hacks for preparing for a road trip is a full vehicle service. This includes checking engine oil levels and quality, as oil which is insufficient or relatively old can cause overheating and engine damage during long drives.
Besides regular service, coolant levels should also be inspected to ensure the engine does not overheat, especially since travelling to different counties could mean navigating changing weather patterns.
The brake systems also deserve special attention, as a long trip typically means that the braking system will be subjected to extra load. Drivers should confirm the brake pads, discs and brake fluid are in good condition since effective braking is essential on hilly terrain and during sudden stops.
Another key consideration is fuel planning. For long trips, drivers are advised to start their trips with a full tank, as fuel stations can be sparse and far between in rural areas. Also, the car's engine stands a better chance of retaining its health when it is running on a tank that is predominantly full for a better part of the trip.
In terms of suspension and steering systems, drivers should inspect these parts to ensure the vehicle can comfortably handle uneven terrain and long distance without compromising control.
A simple way to get past this is ensuring there to do a rough road test to ensure there is no noise from the system whatsoever.
Perhaps the most important safety precaution a driver can take for a long trip is ensuring the tyres are in prime condition. Since many rural roads are characterised by rough, muddy terrain, some mechanics recommend a full overhaul of all four tyres.
Drivers should also ensure that the spare tyre is properly inflated, while the car should be accompanied by a functional jack and wheel spanner in case of emergencies.
As a secondary but equally important precaution, drivers are encouraged to be armed with essential safety equipment like reflective triangles, a first-aid kit and a fire extinguisher.
For long trips, drivers should plan the routes in advance. The Ministry of Interior recently took some steps towards this by announcing alternative routes for motorists heading to Nyanza, Western, and Central Kenya in a bid to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow ahead of the festive season.
