Some people say that I go a little overboard on being prepared for different challenges that we may face in life. One challenge that few people think about is the possibility of falling asleep while driving. I can honestly tell you that this has never been a problem with me. I always seemed to control it either by opening a window or a quick coffee stop. Yet, while I was driving home one day from a conference I started getting real sleepy. I dismissed it as usual especially because the sun was so bright, I knew it would keep me awake. Well it didn't work and within minutes I found myself across the road heading for oncoming traffic. I could not believe how quickly it happened. I can tell you I was awake after that and made it home safely. But, what if I had stayed asleep a couple of more seconds, what would have been the result?
This particular kind of incident is so prevalent that it was part of a three day class I recently attended for obtaining a commercial drivers license. The instructor pointed out that the peak time for drowsiness for most individuals is the 3 pm hour of the day. That's about the time I experienced my nightmare and is also the time when school bus drivers are taking our children home!
It is a real problem but there is a helpful solution. It's called the "Nap Zapper", you can find one at this website (http://www.personalsafetyone.com/) and other sites as well. It fits neatly over your ear (actually lays behind the ear). It emits a pleasant awakening (not startling) signal that warns you of your current situation. It’s an absolute necessity when you have to make those long, monotonous driving trips. When your not using it simply place it into your glove compartment and it's there when you need it! It could very well save you or your loved one's lives.
