In the context of the ongoing epidemic, driving to and from work remains one of the safer modes of transportation. Ensuring your safety while commuting involves taking specific precautions both before and during your drive.
Pre-Drive Precautions
Before you begin your drive, it’s important to disinfect your vehicle to reduce the risk of contamination. Follow these steps for effective pre-drive disinfection:
- Disinfect Common Touch Points: Use disposable disinfectant wipes to thoroughly clean areas frequently touched by your hands, such as the steering wheel, seats, door handles, and the instrument panel. You can also use a disinfectant solution, such as 84 disinfectant or 75% alcohol, for wiping these surfaces.
- Safety Note on Alcohol Use: While 75% alcohol is effective for disinfection, it is also highly flammable. Avoid smoking or using any open flames immediately after disinfecting with alcohol to prevent fire hazards.
Safety Measures While Driving
Following the guidelines recommended by the CDC can help you maintain a safe environment within your vehicle:
- Ventilation in Open Spaces: When driving in open areas, enhance air circulation by turning on the external air circulation system or opening the windows. This helps increase the rate of fresh air exchange and reduces the concentration of any potential airborne contaminants.
- Ventilation in Enclosed Spaces: In enclosed environments, such as parking garages or tunnels, switch to internal air circulation. This minimizes the intake of potentially contaminated external air and maintains a controlled atmosphere within the vehicle.
By adhering to these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of exposure to harmful pathogens while commuting. Ensuring your vehicle is properly disinfected and well-ventilated will contribute to a safer and more comfortable journey to and from work.