Top tips for travelling in hot weather

It's set to be a record breaking summer in the UK, and we know exactly what that means - everyone heading for their favourite spots along the Cornish and Devon coastlines to cool off. Before you set off, here are our top tips for staying safe on your journey to (and across) the water.

Plan Around Peak Times

Delays are worse in hot weather. More people queue, engines run hotter, and breakdowns become more frequent. Where possible, try to travel in the early morning or evening, and avoid the hottest part of the day (roughly 11am to 4pm).

Don't Leave Your Engine Running

It's tempting to keep the aircon going while you wait, but leaving your engine running in loading lanes or on board the ferry increases the risk of engines overheating and breaking down. Once you're loaded onto the ferry, switch off and head to our on-board lounges instead - they're nice and cool, so make the most of them.

Watch Out for Glare

Sunglasses and sun shades aren't just for comfort. Glare from sunlight reflecting off open water can be genuinely dangerous for drivers, so make sure you can see clearly before you approach the slipway or approach the bridge.

Stay Hydrated

Top up your fluids before you travel - for your vehicle and for every passenger.

Slow Down and Stay Alert

Heat increases fatigue, and fatigue impairs decision-making. Please approach the bridge toll plaza and ferry slipways at a sensible speed, and give yourself a little extra time and space.

Recognise the Signs of Heat Exhaustion

If you or someone travelling with you shows signs of heat exhaustion - heavy sweating, dizziness, nausea, or a rapid pulse - move them to shade, cool them down, and give them water.

If symptoms don't improve within 30 minutes, or get worse, this could be heatstroke. Treat it as an emergency and call 999. If you're on board a ferry, please notify a member of crew straight away, they're trained in first aid and can assist immediately.

Tips for Pedestrians and Cyclists

Hot weather brings its own risks if you're travelling on foot or by bike:

• Carry water with you and take regular breaks in the shade, especially on longer routes.
• Wear a hat and sunscreen, and reapply if you're out for more than a couple of hours.
• Choose lighter, breathable clothing and, where possible, plan your route to avoid direct sun during peak heat.
• Take extra care around traffic. Heat affects drivers' concentration too, so stay visible, use crossings where available, and don't assume a vehicle has seen you.
• Check surfaces before setting off - tarmac and metal surfaces (like ramps and walkways) can get very hot underfoot and on bike tyres, and can affect grip.
• Pace yourself. Cycling and walking in high heat increases the risk of dehydration and fatigue faster than you'd expect - slow down and rest if you need to.
• Avoid walking your dogs on the bridge cantilever, as the tarmac gets very hot and can burn their paws.

Please, Stay On Board

Every year we see people tempted to jump from the ferry into the water to cool off. Please don't. However inviting the water looks, this is extremely dangerous. The currents around our crossings can be strong and unpredictable, the water is far colder than it looks from the deck, and there is a real risk to life. Our crew are there to help you enjoy a safe crossing - please stay on board and save the swimming for a proper, supervised spot on shore.

Be Kind to Our Crews

Our teams are working hard in the heat to keep the crossings open 24 hours a day. A little patience and kindness goes a long way - and helps everyone get where they're going safely.

Stay safe, stay cool, and enjoy the sunshine!