10 Ways to Keep Your Drivers Alert

Your drivers spend serious time on the road, and many may have the habit of pushing on even when they're too tired to be doing so. Impaired driving is a major concern, but you can take an active role in helping your drivers improve on-road behavior in terms of driving skill as well as alertness. Here are a few tips to share with your drivers to help them stay focused on the road ahead. 

1. Stay hydrated.

Drinking plenty of water helps keep your body temperature cool and prevent you from feeling sluggish and drowsy. The colder the water, the better!

2. Pack healthy snacks.

Say goodbye to those candy bars and bags of chips. Instead, reach for protein-packed goodies like almonds, seeds, and fruit. 

3. Chew gum. 

Chomping on bubble gum can help keep your brain active and your mind awake. Grab the sugarless variety and you can even help prevent cavities. We call that a win-win!

4. Laugh.

Listening to stand-up comedy may help keep your brain focused and eyes on the road. Plus laughing while driving never hurt anyone….just keep your eyes open when you do!

5. Smell essential oils.

While this may sound out of the ordinary, a quick sniff of an invigorating oil like peppermint, grapefruit or even eucalyptus will help stimulate the brain’s nervous system to keep you alert without the caffeine or sugar rush. 

6. Turn on that AC.

Keeping a cool temperature in your vehicle can help you from becoming too comfortable and nodding off. 

7. Moisturize those eyes.

Staring at the road for long periods of time causes you to forget to blink! Keep eye drops on hand for when your eyes start to feel even the slightest bit dry. If you’re a contact lens wearer, always pack an extra pair in case you need to make a quick change.

8. Sing! 

OK, so you’re not auditioning for American Idol but packing a playlist chock full of songs you know the words to will amp up your concentration and focus on the task at hand…arriving to your destination safely. A few of our favorites: “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey; “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen; “Love Shack” by the B-52’s and “Welcome to the Jungle” by Guns N’ Roses.

9. Catch your Zs. 

Try to clock between 7 and 8 hours of sleep each night. This gives your body and mind a chance to repair itself and unwind so you fall into a deep, peaceful sleep. The goal is to start each day with a full tank of energy which help prevents fatigue. 

10. Practice positivity.

Studies have shown that people who approach life with a ‘glass half full’ mentality often tire less quickly than those who don’t look on the bright side. Pack a book of motivational or inspirational quotes in your glove box and read it when you need a boost. Just make sure the gearshift reads ‘P’ when you do!