Driving in Winter – Tips and Advice

• Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary
• Plan ahead and check road reports for closures or other problems
• Clear screen and all windows of snow and ice (driving with poor visibility is illegal and could result in a heavy fine and even points)
• Stopping distances are longer in icy conditions so keep a good distance from cars in front
• Switch off lights, radio, wipers, heater, etc. before turning the engine off to save battery use
• Check windscreen wipers are not stuck before turning on
• De-mist inside windows before moving off
• Inform friends and family of driving plans and estimated time of arrival
• Drive slowly or according to conditions, and watch for snow ploughs, gritter lorries, broken down vehicles and other hazards

Check:

• Date of last service – schedule a service to check all systems if necessary
• Tyre pressures and tread wear (including spare)
• Battery condition (take to garage for professional check)
• Fuel level and keep topped up (fuel use is higher in stop-start traffic)
• Lights are working and keep them clean for maximum visibility
• Wiper blades (front and back) and replace if necessary
• Screen wash and use additive to prevent freezing (make sure washer jets         are adjusted properly to save waste)
• Check anti-freeze levels frequently during bad weather

Carry:

• Current road map (a compass is also good)
• Change of clothes (coat, hat, gloves, warm socks, outdoor boots - but don’t drive in snow-covered boots as they could slip on the pedals)
• Wool blanket, duvet or sleeping bag
• High-visibility reflective jacket and warning triangles
• Supply of snack food and water in case bad weather strikes
• A hot flask and supply of food if venturing out in bad weather
• Mobile phone and charger
• Emergency contact numbers (Vehicle Breakdown service)
• Scraper to clear screen and windows plus de-icer spray for mirrors and lights (hot water could crack the screen)
• Brush - to clear snow off car
• Keep extra de-icer at home or with you in case locks freeze (not much good if de-icer locked inside car!)
• Supply of torches (including hand-chargeable type which do not require batteries)
• A portable radio (preferably hand-chargeable type)
• First-Aid kit
• Shovel
• Jumper cables
• Rope for towing
• Old sacks, blankets, rugs to put under driving wheels for grip in case stuck

Lastly:

Do not drive with an accumulation of snow on the roof as it could fall and interfere with your view while driving, plus cause a hazard to other drivers (hefty fines and points could result if you are considered a danger on the road).
Stay on main roads when possible as they are more likely to have been gritted and will be patrolled by police and rescue vehicles.

There may be a long wait for a breakdown vehicle to reach you so you will be glad of all the above if needed!