Truck Drivers continue to rank #1 in the deadliest professions last year. Media headlines featuring attempts to pull truckers out of their cabs, robberies, and being caught up in the frenzy of protests – trucking can seem scary for any man or woman considering the profession in an industry challenged by a the driver shortage. Paper Transport recognizes the much-needed growth of women in trucking to ensure our country’s capacity to continue shipping goods as well as common dangers posed to truck drivers. We’ve collected 5 safety tips for women in trucking from Bonnie Evans (professional truck driver), Keith Stelzer (Vice President of Safety & Recruiting), and Brent Coates (Safety Manager) to help bring awareness and security on the road.
Always keep your doors locked.
- Keep your cab doors locked while stopped and while you are driving. People have tried to get into trucks when they are stopped at red lights, stop signs, or even when stopped in traffic. Be aware of your surroundings. Park in well-lit areas whenever possible.
- Stay connected with your dispatcher, friends, or family members letting them know where you are and where you are going with estimated times of arrival or departure. When at truck stops, act like you know what you are doing and know where you are going.
- Never advertise that you drive alone.
Utilize objects in your surroundings.
Most companies prohibit drivers from carrying any type of weapon. Utilize items in your surroundings, such as:
- When walking to your truck, carry your truck key in your hand with the extended portion along your index finger. If attacked, use the sharp edge to strike the aggressor on the face or back of their hand.
- You can utilize aerosol spray (hair spray, bug repellant, deodorant, etc.) to spray into an aggressor’s eyes, nose, or mouth.
- When outside of your truck carry a sharp pencil, pen, or object for use to strike an aggressor if necessary.
- If your schedule permits, take a personal self-defense class.
- A hot cup of coffee, chocolate, or water can be used to throw into an aggressor’s face.
- Always have some type of warning device readily accessible to use like a whistle, small air horn, or another protective device to alert others.
Preplan your trip.
- To avoid parking in out-of-the-way, dark spots, have a thorough pre-trip plan before you start driving. This will assist you in identifying safe locations for fuel, food, restrooms, or rest breaks.
- Do your research.
- Be sure to ask how the training process works. Ensure you are comfortable with how the training will be administered and with the accommodation for such. For example, what is the sleeping quarter’s arrangement?
Thank you to Bonnie Evans, Brent Coates, and Keith Stelzer for sharing their expertise. With these 5 safety tips for women in trucking, Paper Transport hopes to spread awareness and safety to stay safe and prepared while out on the road.
For more truck driver advice, check out our blog post Advice For Women In Trucking – Bonnie Evans.
Interested in learning more about our truck driving jobs? Search openings at drivepti.com