Weather advice from WMCW

Weather advice from WMCW

With yet more snow, ice and heavy rain forecast for many parts of the UK, we at WMCW have decided to issue some more advice for driving in hazardous conditions.

First of all, if you can avoid driving altogether, then do it. It is best to eschew un-needed journeys when hazardous conditions are in effect. However, if you really need to use the roads, there are a number of tips for driving in hazardous weather conditions.

If you have to travel in snow or icy conditions, be sure to take time when driving. Allow yourself a decent amount of extra time for your journey so you are not feeling you need to rush. Make sure you have warm clothing in your vehicle in case you get stuck, and make sure your mobile phone is charged in case you need to make any emergency calls. When driving, even if the roads have been gritted you should keep an eye on your speed, and avoid sharp turns. Leave more distance than usual between cars, as braking and reaction speeds are sure to be affected by ice. A gap of three seconds between passed landmarks is the minimum you should be thinking of.

When braking, if you do not have anti-lock brakes, make sure to pump them slowly to prevent them from locking and sending you into a skid. Black ice can be near on invisible, so always be aware of the road. When approaching a corner, do so in as low a gear as possible, and try not to use the brakes on bends.

Before heading out, use a decent defroster on the windscreen, and if possible add some anti-freeze to your screen wash fluid. Visibility may be poor on the roads, so having a clear windscreen to begin with will help. Also make sure your headlights are on and in good working order, not only for your own use, but for other drivers to be able to see you.

You should also take a look at our previous article on driving in icy conditions here.

---

---