- Set off earlier than normal to allow for weather conditions. Allow yourself the extra time to drive more slowly and carefully. Other motorists will be driving slowly, and overtaking may not be an option. You don't need the stress of being late for an appointment or work - you must concentrate on your driving not clock watching.
- Clear the snow off all your windows and don't forget your mirrors too, before you set off on your journey. Do not use water to de-ice windscreens. Hot water can crack the glass, and the water will only freeze again on the screen or on the ground where you are standing. Preferably use a scraper. Antifreeze is incredibly harmful to cats and dogs, which they can injest from cleaning their paws after walking through it on the ground or they can drink it from the floor. Antifreeze tastes sweet to cats. So please be mindful of pets when using antifreeze.
- Don't leave the snow on the roof of your car. It has been known to slide forward under braking and cover your windscreen. Also it's dangerous for the car behind you to have your snow fly and hit their windscreens.
- Clear your front and rear lights, so other people can see you and your signals. They can then see if you are slowing down or getting ready to make a turn and they can alter their driving accordingly.
- Use dipped headlights not main beam during the day.
Warm clothing: Your car may be toasty on the inside but if you have to get out and walk, you could be in trouble if you have not got any warm clothing with you.
Carry the following items in your car during the winter weather period: warm coat, hat, gloves, sturdy boots, a blanket to keep you warm if you get stuck. Take some food, chocolate, biscuits, water and a hot drink if you can. Always carry a fully charged mobile phone, and some old bits of carpet, or cat litter, to put under the tyres if you become stuck and a shovel to clear snow ahead of you.
