Health Tip: Stay Awake Behind the Wheel

Prevent drowsy driving

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(HealthDay News) -- People who work the third shift, drive great distances each day, and those who don't get enough sleep or take sedating medications are at greatest risk of drowsy driving.

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But everyone is at risk of being impaired behind the wheel because they're too tired. The National Safety Council offers these suggestions to prevent drowsy driving:

• Get plenty of sleep before you head out on the road.
• If you start to feel tired, go to a safe area for a quick rest. But don't pull over at the side of the road.
• Try not to drive between the hours of 12 a.m. and 6 a.m.
• For long trips, start driving early in the morning, and plan to switch off driving with a buddy.
• Keep the temperature inside the car cool and comfortable.
• Take a quick break every 100 miles or so to have a snack, get some fresh air or just to stretch your legs.

-- Diana Kohnle