Fatigue or tiredness behind the wheel is a very real danger, even if you’ve never experienced it firsthand.

Discovernaija.com offers these tips for staying awake while you’re driving:

Get enough sleep: seven or eight hours of sleep the night before a trip
Don’t start a trip late in the day — you need to be fresh and alert

If possible, don’t drive alone. Passengers can take turns driving and also serve as conversation partners to keep you awake

Avoid distractions – mobile phones, emotional discussions, family, etc.-while driving

Avoid long drives at night. The glare of lights increases the danger of highway hypnosis

Adjust your car’s environment (temperature/radio) so that it helps keep you awake and alert

Do not use cruise control; keep your body involved with the driving

Watch your posture. Drive with your head up and your shoulders back. Legs should not be fully extended, but flexed at about a 45 degree angle

Take frequent breaks – exercise fights fatigue

Stop for light meals and snacks – avoid alcohol entirely

Wear sunglasses to fight glare – don’t allow your eyes to become fatigued

If anti-fatigue measures fail then there is only one solution. Find a safe, guarded rest area and sleep!

Source: http://discovernaija.com/?p=937