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Metro Towing Numbers Spike With Heat Wave

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Local tow operators report a bittersweet surge in business due the heat wave that grips the Twin Cities.

In fact, one major player in the metro towing service scene, Bobby & Steve's in downtown Minneapolis, reports a near doubling of business since the heat wave began Sunday.

"Normally, we get some 20 service calls in the morning and maybe 30 in the afternoon," Towing Service Leader Gary Anstead said. "While the morning tows remain at about the same level, we are now seeing a jump in service calls to as many as 50 or 60 in one afternoon."

It's not just the heat that is driving up the number of tows. The numerous roadway projects throughout the metro have traffic at a standstill in many places.

Towing leader Gary Anstead at Bobby and Steve's that's the perfect recipe for a breakdown.

"It takes you longer to get home, the car is idling longer and without the proper air flow, the engine is heating up and there is stress on all the parts, including the alternator, ball joints, tie rods and of course the radiator," Anstead said.

Towing Numbers

Always check your fluids in this hot weather and consider leaving work a little earlier or later or take a different route.

The idea is to keep the car moving allowing an adequate air flow to cool stressed out parts.

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