Tips For Driving in Snow

Tips For Winter Driving
· If the forecast or conditions are bad, only drive if it is absolutely necessary
· When you’re on the road, leave at least a three-second gap between you and the car in front
· Check local traffic and weather reports for their planned route
· On long journeys keep you car well-ventilated to prevent drowsiness – and take regular breaks
· Plan your journey in advance and check for diversions or closures
· Keep an up-to-date roadmap in the car
· Let friends or family know where you are travelling and when you expect to arrive
· Keep a fully-charged mobile phone with you in case of breakdown
· Wrap up warm and take a blanket, waterproof clothing, sensible footwear and a fully charged mobile phone in case of breakdown
· If you begin to skid, turn into the skid to correct it

Your vehicle
Before heading off, you should make the following checks:

· Check tyre pressure (spare tyre too!), tread depth and oil level
· Check all lights are working correctly and remember to keep them clean
· Check front and rear wiper blades for wear or splitting
· Screen wash additive should be added to prevent freezing
· Make sure you have enough fuel for your journey
· Check anti-freeze should be added to your vehicles cooling system in line with the manufacturers specification
· Before setting out on a journey, remove ice and snow from your vehicles windows and lights. Do not drive with a small hole cut through the ice on your windscreen. The Highway Code states that it is illegal to drive with poor visibility. Ensure you demist the windows properly before you drive off
· Do not use hot water from a kettle to clear your windows, as this may crack the glass
· Carry a key de-icer with you to unfreeze frozen locks