Health Tip: Stay Awake Behind the Wheel

Wednesday, July 23, 2008; 10:00 AM

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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.

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.