NDOT Freeway Service Patrol sees spike in calls as extreme heat ramps up
LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — As extreme temperatures trigger harmful situations throughout Southern Nevada, 8 News Now rode together with the Nevada Department of Transportation Freeway Service Patrol, as they see a spike in heat-related calls.
NDOT Freeway Service Patrol Supervisor Stephen Sanfillipo is fairly good at saving the day.
“We’re like a first responder’s first responder,” Sanfillipo mentioned of his work.
He spends his workdays driving up and down the I-15, stopping to assist individuals with flat tires, lifeless batteries, overheated engines, no gasoline, and people concerned in crashes.
“You also get to help people, which is really satisfying,” Sanfillipo mentioned. “That’s the best part of the job.”
In a metropolis like Las Vegas, Stephen is at all times on the go, however he mentioned the summer season’s extreme heat brings a complete new slew of points.
“I can’t even put a number on it,” he mentioned of heat-related calls. “But it’s multiplied quite a bit.”
He informed 8 News Now tires and hoses are likely to fail in triple digits, and he additionally sees points with low fluids.
“Make sure all your fluids,” Sanfillipo mentioned. “Whether that is your coolant, your oil, and your radiator as well, make sure that’s all topped off.”
He additionally mentioned as gasoline costs soar, extra drivers are likely to push their tanks previous empty.
“They end up in some serious, hazardous locations,” he mentioned of points like this.
Therefore, earlier than drivers get caught in these varieties of great conditions, he encourages everybody to verify their autos are maintained and able to deal with the insufferable temperatures Southern Nevada throws our method this season.
“If you get a vehicle that overheats and shuts off in this weather,” Sanfillipo concluded. “In turn, you have no AC.”
The NDOT Freeway Service Patrol is state-funded, so providers are free to drivers.
If you’re stranded and need assistance, dial *647, or name 911 in emergencies.
The NDOT Freeway Service Patrol has extra data on its website.
