GETTING READY FOR WINTER
Before winter hits it's worthwhile considering how safe and prepared you are as a motorist, especially if you drive regularly or are planning any long distance journeys.
ROSPA (The Royal Society of the Prevention of Accidents) is a signatory to the European Road Safety Charter and recommends that you carry certain safety equipment with you at all times during the winter months so that you are covered in every weather condition. The basic safety kit comprises of the following:
- Tow rope
- Spare wheel
- De-icing equipment
- First Aid Kit
- Torch
- Thick/warm blanket
Winter months are hard on any model of car, so try to get into the habit of carrying out the following checks before embarking on any long distance journeys in cold weather:
- Tyre pressures - check every 2 weeks for optimum safety as skidding tyres at the wrong pressure causes premature wear and could quickly lead to an unsafe or illegal tread.
- Battery
- Brakes - if you have any doubts about their condition, consult our technicians at Woodlands Service Centre
- Windscreen wipers - if worn or torn at all you should replace them immediately
- Lights - keep them clean at all timesand check your headlight alignment
- Screen wash - ensure you have an active anti-freeze ingredient in it
CAREFUL DRIVING HELPS!
- Be prepared to adapt your driving in poor weather and always look out for potential hazards.
- Leave a longer braking distance between you and other vehicles in bad weather so you can avoid harsh braking which can lead to skidding, loss of control and often accidents.
- If driving over ice or snow always use as high a gear as possible; this reduces the turning effect on the wheels, reducing wheel spin and lose of traction
