Top Tips For Driving in Winter Weather
Brrrr … it's so cold out there, with even more bitter winter weather set to strike before the jollity of Christmas. The temptation, of course, is to stay at home, stretched out on thick rugs in front of blazing fires - or at least with the central heating set to ‘continuous' - and for many of us who are facing tube strikes, school shut-downs, traffic disruptions and road closures, this is not only possible, but likely. In some parts of the country, police are advising against venturing outside at all, but if you must leave your home there are some points you need to bear in mind for the sake of your safety.
• If you're not using your car regularly, start it up once a day or so to keep the engine working and then keep it running to so that the battery is not at risk of going flat.
• Double and triple check all of your car's functions - lights, windscreen wipers, tyres and so on. Make sure your oil, fuel and anti-freeze levels are reasonable before driving.
• It's not just your car that needs to be looked after - you need to take care of yourself as well. Accidents happen when drivers are tired and rundown even in favourable weather conditions - so if you're not on top form, don't risk driving.
• You should also avoid driving after a big meal, when you're in danger of feeling drowsy and lethargic.
• Listen regularly to weather bulletins and traffic updates.
• Factor in extra time for your journey. A driver in a hurry is an accident waiting to happen at the best of times.
• Stick to major roads where possible, as it's more likely that they will have been gritted.
• Make sure you have a kit containing de-icer, a scraper and other items that you might need in case of an emergency - a shovel, torch, snow boots, rugs, spare clothes and gloves,
water and high-energy drinks and snacks could all prove vital if you break down.
• Carry a fully stocked first aid kit
• Always ensure that you have a fully charged mobile phone and the contact number for your roadside assistance provider.
• Always let someone know where you are going and the time at which you set off.
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