Motorists are being urged by road safety and breakdown organisation GEM Motoring Assist to take extra caution as winter weather is predicted over the coming days in the UK. As much as 2 inches (5cm) of snow is likely to fall across parts of northern England, the Midlands, and Wales, with higher ground expecting heavier fall. Parts of Northern Ireland and Scotland are also expecting heavy snowfall.
“Road journeys are more difficult and treacherous when there is ice on roads or a fall of snow,” GEM says. “GEM is encouraging drivers to plan ahead and be ready to postpone journeys if necessary. This avoids the risk of getting stuck or breaking down, and helps reduce pressure on emergency services and breakdown providers who are likely to be at full stretch in winter weather, says GEM.”
The organisation advises to ensure your car is well equipped to handle the conditions, particularly ensuring that the battery is in the best possible shape. It also recommends making sure all windows are clear of snow and ice before setting off, and giving your lights and number plate a good wipe.
Essential items it recommends include a shovel, fully charged mobile phone, torch, ice scraper, food, water, jump leads, first aid kit, warm clothes and a supply of sand or gravel to assist with grip if your wheels are spinning.
“In winter conditions,” it says, “keep your speeds down, leave plenty of space between yourself and the vehicle in front, and be ready for sudden, rapid deteriorations in conditions.”
“It makes sense to postpone a journey if possible,” GEM head of road safety James Luckhurst says. “Agree to reschedule a meeting or a visit if it’s not vital. In that way, you’re avoiding a lot of potential trouble for yourself, and ensuring you won’t be putting additional strain on emergency and recovery crews. Ensuring that you and your car are properly prepared for winter can make a big difference towards keeping you safe on the roads.”
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