Before snow or ice

In winter, it is even more important to check that your vehicle is well maintained and serviced. Before going on a journey, make sure your vehicle is in good running order. You may wish to consider these points:

  • keep the lights, windows and mirrors clean and free from ice and snow
  • add anti-freeze to the radiator and winter additive to the windscreen washer bottles
  • make sure wipers and lights are in good working order
  • check that tyres have plenty of tread depth and are kept at the correct pressure

If you make a driving journey when ice or snow is forecast:

  • make sure you have warm clothes, blanket, food, water, boots, torch, any medication you need to take regularly, first aid kit, ice scraper and de-icer and a spade in your vehicle
  • in snow conditions you may also find that sun glasses are useful due to glare
  • try to wait until the roads have been gritted before travelling

Road conditions can suddenly change during the winter, so when driving it's best to be well prepared.