Winter Motoring

Many breakdowns, injuries and even deaths from exposure are avoidable if simple precautions are taken.

Keep an eye on weather forecasts before you head out; conditions can change rapidly if a cold snap is on the way.

During winter deaths can occur on car journeys from exposure, however most are avoidable if simple precautions are taken, before setting out on a journey especially a long one check the weather forecast and remember conditions can change rapidly. Always let someone know where you are going and what time you are due to arrive.

With winter driving you are more likely to break down and the worse the winter the more your chances increase. It is not only your own vehicle that you have to worry about, you also need to consider if there is a crash or if vehicles in front breakdown you could be stuck for a long time waiting for the crash to be cleared and you need to consider your passengers especially if they are the old or the young.

Give yourself time (get up early), if setting off early in the morning or after your car has been left for a while it could be iced over.

Before setting out check your car

Antifreeze - check coolant level

Battery

Fuel

Tyres

Windscreen

Screen wash

Locks and door seals

Passengers

If transporting elderly ensure that they have the right medication and warm clothing. Ensure that all passengers also are prepared, even a short journey can last a long time in the winter.

When severe bad weather is forecast driver and passengers should have; Warm winter coat, scarf, hat, gloves and warm clothes, Waterproofs, Sturdy boots and Flask of hot drink.

Year round essentials for your care

In car mobile phone charger

Fully charged mobile phone

Sunglasses

Personal medication

Warning triangle

Spare bulbs

First Aid Kit

Road Atlas (Paper type)

Sat-Nav

Battery jump leads

Bottled Water (kept inside the car covered if possible)

Torch and Batteries

Breakdown membership card.

Winter emergency kit

Blanket, rug or sleeping bag (wool blankets are good as they will stay warm even if wet)

Shovel

Bits of carpet or thick cardboard to place under driven wheels to help regain traction on ice or snow

Salt, sand or cat litter – to help clear snow and ice

Reflective jacket(s)

Ice scraper and de-icer

Tow rope

Snow chains (if you live in a remote or rural area)

Snacks – chocolate or cereal bars

Extra screen wash

Whistle

This is a basic guide drawn from various sources and by no means a definitive guide, Contact Left recommend that you get your car checked out by a garage and that you ask your local mechanic for tips and guidance on winter survival.

As always do not rush your journey, it’s better to be late and safe.