With Christmas and New Years around the corner, chances are you’ll be driving around a fair amount. Here’s how you can keep safe on the roads during the chilly season.
Poor weather conditions can make getting around in winter very difficult. Our winter travel tips are packed with advice on how to stay safe, whether you’re travelling by car or public transport.
If weather conditions are poor, it’s important to make sure you’re prepared for your journey. Take some time to consider the following things before you brave the cold.
Before you leave home
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Plan ahead
Make sure you plan any journeys well in advance so you don’t get caught out by bad weather. Check the weather forecast before you set out and make sure you’re prepared for poor travelling conditions if it looks like it might snow.
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Please don’t rush! Take it steady
Ice and snow may result in your journey taking longer than you expect. Give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination, so that you’re not in a rush.
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Check traffic reports
Keep up to date with traffic reports, in case you need to delay your trip until it’s safe to travel. Trains, planes and coaches can all be affected by bad weather, so check for delays and cancellations before you set out.
When you’re out and about
If you have to venture out in snowy weather, make sure you’ve got everything you need to stay warm and safe.
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Dress appropriately
Make sure you’re wearing suitable clothing for snowy and icy weather. You’ll stay warmest by wearing lots of layers (you can always remove a few items of clothing if you get too warm).
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Stay alert
In extremely cold temperatures, your body needs more food than usual. Drinking plenty of water and eating regular, healthy snacks will help you to stay alert.
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Carry a winter travel kit
Make sure you stay safe on the road by keeping a winter travel safety kit in your car. Your winter travel kit should contain:
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Warm coat
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Hat and gloves
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Torch
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Fully charged mobile phone (and in-car mobile phone charger, where possible)
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Bottled water
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Flask full of hot drink
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Wellington boots
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A shovel to clear snow
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Blanket
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Dried food (such as chocolate or energy bars)
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Lock de-icer
Tips for driving on ice and snow
In icy and snowy conditions, it’s best to avoid using your car altogether. If your journey can’t be postponed, follow our useful tips for driving in ice and snow.
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Clear all snow and ice from your car
Before you set off, make sure you’ve completely removed all ice and snow from your car windows. Clear any snow from the roof of your car, as this can fall onto your front or back windscreen and obstruct your visibility while you’re driving.
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Reduce your speed
Driving more slowly when the weather’s bad can make for a much safer journey. Reduce your speed by about 50% when travelling in snowy and icy conditions.
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Be observant
Take extra care when driving on roads which are used infrequently, as these usually freeze first. Stick to major roads which are more likely to have been cleared and gritted.
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Take a break
If you’re driving in poor weather conditions for any length of time, schedule in regular breaks as these will help you to stay alert.
For more tips on staying safe and warm this winter, take a look at our article on how to prepare your home for bad weather.
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