Be prepared for winter weather

26 November 2010

Plan ahead when bad weather is forecast – that’s the message Derby and Derbyshire Road Safety Partnership is sending to motorists this winter.

Partnership chairman Mike Ashworth said: “Commuters are more likely to be travelling in the dark at this time of year and icy conditions make journeys more difficult. When snow is forecast, motorists should avoid unnecessary trips and consider using public transport where possible.

Mike added: “Planning ahead is vital at this time of year. The Highways Agency - which belongs to our partnership - has produced a useful checklist for people who need to travel when weather conditions are poor.”

Highways Agency Journey checklist

  • Check and replace the anti-freeze in the radiator

  • Make sure your lights are clean and check the bulbs

  • Ensure your windscreen is clean 

  • Replace your battery if it's not reliable

  • Ensure your tyres are correctly inflated and replace them if the tread has reached the legal minimum

  • Check the weather forecast – one of the ways you can do this is by visiting the Met Office website (opens in a new window) 

  • Check what the traffic is like before you set off – one of the ways you can do this by visiting the Highways Agency website (opens in a new window) or calling their information line on 0300 123 5000

  • Stash the following emergency kit in your car - an ice scraper and de-icer, a torch and spare batteries, warm clothes and a blanket, boots, a first aid kit, jump leads, a mobile phone charger, food and a warm drink, a shovel, a reflective warning sign and a map