How to Stay Alert on Your Drive Home from Work The night shift can be exhausting, especially if you're driving home from a 12-hour shift. It is likely that you are extremely exhausted and drained, which makes driving home This is not only unsafe for you, but for others around you. There are ways to keep yourself alert while you are doing this dreaded post-night shift drive. The last thing you want to do is fall asleep at the wheel. The following are just a few ways, other than caffeine, to keep you alert and awake on your drive home. Turn on Your Air Conditioner Blasting your AC can be super helpful for staying alert. The warmer your car is, the more relaxed you may feel. Leave the heat alone for a while and shiver your way home. At least you will be alert enough to drive. Pull Over if You Need To Sometimes you might just need to pull the car over and take a nap. Set your alarm to wake you up, or pull over every so often if you feel to fatigued to drive. This can help to keep you from dozing off while behind the wheel. It is better to be safe than sorry. Listen to the Radio Turning the volume up and singing along will help to keep you awake. You can also listen to an e-book or anything that can stimulate your mind. Something else you can do to help even more is to make a playlist of songs that keep you pumped. Don't Get Too Comfortable This goes along with blasting the AC. The more uncomfortable you are, the more alert and annoyed you will be. Sit on something that will annoy you and cause you to become more alert. Paying attention will be easier if you want to go home to get out of the uncomfortable situation. Take a Different Way Home
Taking a different route home every once in a while can help too. When you are going a new way, you will have to be more alert to make sure you do not get lost. Varying your routine will keep you on your toes. Carpool If you are fearful that it is too dangerous for you to drive after your shift, see if you can carpool with one of your coworkers. This can be an excellent way to not only get some rest but to save some money on gas. With a carpool, there will be someone else there to keep you alert. Moving Forward If you do not trust yourself to drive, wait until you are more alert before getting behind the wheel. Before leaving your shift, sit down and rest for a few minutes before getting ready to leave. Whatever you choose, make sure you choose the safest option for you and those around you. Do you have any helpful tips to stay awake after a long shift? Please follow us on Facebook, Linkedin, Pinterest and Twitter