Checklist for winter road safety from LFB
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) has made a checklist for winter road safety for anyone driving home for Christmas. Figures, it said, show that the risk of collisions increasing by 25% over the festive period between 14th and 29th December, with firefighters attending an average of over 12 road traffic collisions (RTCs) every day.
In December 2024, Christmas Eve was the joint busiest day for RTCs, with 19 attended by firefighters. The hours between 0100 and 1600 were the busiest it said. Seasonal changes, including rain, ice, snow, and shorter days “can bring new hazards” to roads over the winter, with wet or icy conditions alone “significantly” impacting the stopping distance of a vehicle.
The brigade has launched the following checklist for winter road safety:
- Ensure that it’s lovely weather for a sleigh ride together: Check the forecast before you travel. Winter weather might cause road closures, delays and diversions, so check the National Highways website for the latest updates.
- Make sure you jingle all the way: Ensure your vehicle is winter-ready. The RAC offers advice on quick winter driving checks before a journey.
- In the bleak midwinter, leave extra time: Don’t be tempted to go faster than is safe. Make sure you leave enough time to clear your windows and mirrors of ice or snow before setting out too.
- All I want for Christmas… is an emergency winter travel kit: Containing useful items from de-icer to a shovel, a winter travel kit is an essential item for your boot. The Met Office has advice on how to prepare a winter kit for your vehicle.
- When it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas, consider braking distances: It can take up to ten times longer to stop in icy conditions. If you suspect a road is icy, avoid steering or braking harshly, in case your tyres lose their grip. Keep both hands on the wheel and take your time.
The “fatal four” causes of serious injuries and deaths on the roads, the LFB said, are speeding, distractions, not wearing seatbelts, and driving under the influence of either drugs or alcohol.
Stay tuned to EyeOnLondon for the latest news and expert opinions and stay safe this winter.
Follow us on:
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!
We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!
