Safe Rest for Drivers During Ramadan: Choose a Mosque, Avoid Sleeping in the Car

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com — Drivers undertaking long journeys during the fasting month are advised to choose appropriate resting places to keep their bodies in prime condition. One recommended option is to rest at a mosque or musalla. Jusri Pulubuhu, founder of Jakarta Defensive Driving Consulting (JDDC), said that rest periods during fasting can be used for a short sleep or power nap while also engaging in worship. He noted that drivers can align their travel times with prayer schedules, for example by stopping at a mosque to rest before or around the time of prayer. Musalla or mosque accommodation is considered more comfortable because it is usually cooler. Jusri also reminded drivers not to sleep in a car that is stationary. In addition to the cabin potentially becoming hot, turning on the air conditioning when the car is stopped can pose health risks. “Don’t sleep in the car, because of the heat. Whether you like it or not, we turn on the AC, but turning on the AC has drawbacks that may not be good for our health,” Jusri said. He explained that there is a possibility of dangerous gas leaks such as carbon monoxide that can endanger passengers. Therefore, sleeping in a stationary car should be avoided. If you are forced to rest inside the car, Jusri recommends choosing a shaded and safe location, and slightly opening the window for air circulation. Drivers also need to ensure the environment is safe to avoid potential criminal acts. “If you want to sleep in a car, that is fine; just make sure you are under a shady tree, the seat is reclined, the window slightly open. But make sure the situation is safe,” he said. The safety meant is that the car is visible or can be watched by other passengers who are resting in the restaurant. So it can be protected from criminal acts.