Munich  - Driving on hot days can be just as risky as during extreme weather conditions in winter, with many accidents in the sizzling summer months attributed to lack of fluid intake on the part of drivers, motoring organisations point out.

Motorists should at least drink three litres of water, fruit juices or cold tea per day to avoid heart and circulation problems, Germany's automobile association ADAC says.

Air conditioning systems in the car should also not be turned on too cold as this can also be a strain on the human body. Generally the air temperature difference between the interior and exterior of the car should not be more than six degrees Celsius.

Here is some more advice for hot days on the road:

Small children and pets should never be left alone in a locked car on a hot summer day. The interior of a car can heat up by up to one degree Celsius per minute in direct sunlight, reaching temperatures of up to 70 degrees Celsius and more within a short space of time.

All doors should be opened before starting the car to allow the heat to escape from the heated cockpit interior.

Take regular breaks with some stretching exercises on longer trips.

Avoid filling the tank to the brim as fuel expands in heat. Vapour could escape with a risk of explosion.

When it comes to the vehicle itself motorists should regularly check hoses, belts and the cooling system, tyre pressure and the oil level. (dpa)