It’s getting cold outside. December has arrived and with it the first signs of frost and the threat of ice and snow. We’ve all started to wrap up warm, layers, scarves and gloves donned before leaving the house, even short journeys become heavily padded marches of defiance against the bitter temperature of the outside world. Just as we protect our bodies and homes from cold weather, so we should our cars. Preparation and careful driving are a must when travelling anywhere this winter.

• Take your car to a mechanic and check out the following: battery, antifreeze level, thermostat, heater, brakes, and defroster.
• Check to make sure your tires have adequate tread. If the treads are worn, replace them. In the last couple of years there has been heavy snow fall in the UK, why not invest in some Snow chains, check that they fit your tyres first.
• Make a visual inspection of your vehicle’s lights. Make sure the front and rear lights are operational, especially the car’s flashing hazard lights.
• Often in the winter, the windshield wiper fluid may freeze. Instead of toughing it out until spring, exchange the fluid with one made especially to spray in freezing conditions.
• Similarly, consider purchasing winter wiper blades to cut through snow and ice instead of using regular ones throughout the year.
• Check the spray nozzles of your windshield-washer system. Sometimes, they get blocked by wax or debris. Use a needle or pin to clear blocked nozzles.
• Make sure you have a scraper in your glove compartment, it’s often more effective than de-icer.

Here are some Driving tips for driving in snow and ice. If it gets really bad we would recommend not travelling at all unless absolutely necessary.

• Before you go, listen to the local travel news for information regarding accidents or closed roads.

• Plan your route ahead of time to avoid any roads that become dangerous during bad weather. If a road is closed or blocked, do not attempt to continue on this route.
• Test your brakes gently as you set off, this will give you an idea of how slippery the roads are if there is black ice.
• Use gentle impulses while driving: accelerate gently, turn slowly, and brake carefully and early. Avoid unexpected quick movements that could cause you to skid by leaving ample room between you and the next car. Anticipate turns, stops, and lane changes well before they occur.

• If you have a vehicle with four or all wheel drive, don’t get overconfident and rely on its abilities to get you out of a problem. The traction and force created by all four wheels driving instead of two helps you get going from a stop, but does not assist your vehicle’s braking ability. In fact, AWD- and 4WD-equipped vehicles are heavier than 2WD vehicles and require more time and braking power to come to a stop.

• See and be seen. Always keep your lights on while driving through rain, snow, and fog.

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