Never drive a tank vehicle with open valves or manhole covers.

If your vehicle does not have automatic air tank drains, drain your air tanks at the end of each working day to remove moisture and oil. Otherwise, the brakes could fail.

Tank vehicles have special items that you need to check. Tank vehicles come in many types and sizes. You need to check the vehicle's operator manual to make sure you know how to inspect your tank vehicle.

Un-baffled liquid tankers also called "smooth bore" tanks have nothing inside to slow down the flow of the liquid.

If the truck is on a slippery surface such as ice, the wave can shove a stopped truck out into an intersection.

If you must make a quick steering movement, applying the brakes would cause liquid surge increasing the chance of a roll over.

Be extremely cautious in driving smooth bore tanks, especially when starting and stopping.

Don't carry liquids or gases in a leaking tank. To do so is a crime. You will be cited and prevented from driving further. You may also be liable for the clean-up of any spill.

Stop before a railroad crossing if your vehicle: Is placarded, carries any amount of chlorine, has cargo tanks loaded or empty used for hazardous materials. You must stop 15 to 50 feet before the nearest rail. Proceed only when you are sure no train is coming, and you can clear the tracks without stopping. Don't shift gears while crossing the tracks

Do the following to correct a drive-wheel braking skid: stop braking allowing the rear wheels roll again and keep the rear wheels from sliding, and counter-steer. As a vehicle turns back on course, it tends to keep on turning, unless you turn the steering wheel quickly the other way, you may find yourself skidding in the opposite direction.

On all tank vehicles, the most important item to check for is leaks. Check under and around the vehicle for signs of any leaking. Don't carry liquids or gases in a leaking tank.

Liquid surge results from movement of the liquid in partially filled tanks. This movement can have bad effects on handling. When the wave hits the end of the tank, it tends to push the truck in the direction the wave is moving.

For the safest handling on the road, the more heavily loaded semitrailer should be in first position behind the tractor. The lighter trailer should be in the rear.

Increasing application pressure to hold the same speed means the brakes are fading.

The amount of liquid to load into a tank depends on: the amount the liquid will expand in transit, the weight of the liquid, and legal weight limits.

Commercial vehicles are often wide and take up most of a lane. Safe drivers will manage what little space they have. You can do this by keeping your vehicle centered in your lane and avoid driving alongside others.

Hauling liquids in tanks requires special skills because of the high center of gravity and liquid movement.

High center of gravity means that much of the load's weight is carried high up off the road. This makes the vehicle top-heavy and easy to roll over. Tests have shown that tankers can turn over at the speed limits posted for curves.

Any driver who loses brakes going downhill should use an escape ramp if it's available. If you don't use it, your chances of having a serious crash may be much greater.

If you have a placarded trailer with dual tires, you should check the tires at the start of each trip and each time that you stop for any reason, whether to rest or to refuel. Use a tire pressure gauge to get an accurate reading.