Driving in Winter Conditions

The challenging cold spells we have experienced in recent winters have highlighted that we all need to be prepared for similar spells this winter. A few very simple steps taken now, can help prevent you from becoming one of the unfortunate motorists who may find themselves stranded in the snow and ice this winter.

Is your vehicle ready?

It's worth making these checks regularly - and particularly before a long winter journey:

• Check and replace the anti-freeze in the radiator 
• Make sure your lights are clean and check the bulbs  
• Ensure your windscreen is clean 
• Replace the battery if it's not reliable
• Ensure your tyres are correctly inflated and replace them before the tread has reached the legal minimum.

Put an emergency kit in the boot including:

• Ice scraper and de-icer
• Torch and spare batteries - or a wind-up torch
• Warm clothes and blankets - for you and all passengers
• Boots
• First aid kit
• Jump leads
• A shovel
• Road atlas
• Sunglasses (the glare off snow can be dazzling)

Before each journey in severe weather

• Clear any snow and ice from all windows, lights and number plates. Make sure you can see clearly and be seen. Clear snow from the roof of the car.
• Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged - but don't use while driving.
• Take some food and a warm drink in a flask in case you get stuck. Don't forget to take any personal medication too!

ONLY MAKE ESSENTIAL JOURNEYS!!

For more advice and up to date travel information visit the Highways Agency Website:  http://www.highways.gov.uk/knowledge/333.aspx

For detailed information on local and national weather conditions, visit the Met Office website at www.metoffice.gov.uk or listen to local radio broadcasts.

Fleet Safety Forum: "Driver Safety in bad Weather - Guidance leaflet for fleet managers" www.fleetsafetyforum.org

Driver Safety in Bad Weather (PDF)