05/01/2026
https://www.facebook.com/share/17jVNNtuX8/
| The cold snap is set to continue, follow these tips to help keep you and others safe on the road.
๐ Before you set off...
- Clear your vehicle completely โ remove snow and ice from all windows, mirrors, lights, bonnet, roof, and boot to ensure full visibility and avoid debris hazards for others.
- Check tyre condition and pressure โ cold weather reduces tire pressure.
- Inspect lights, wipers, and battery โ ensure all lights work, replace worn wipers, top up winter-grade washer fluid, and check your batteryโs cold-weather capacity.
๐ During the Drive...
- Slow down and stay smooth โ reduce speed and avoid sudden steering, throttle, or braking; slippery surfaces mean control must be gentle.
- Increase following distance โ braking on snow/ice takes longer; aim for a 5โ6 second gap or more to vehicles ahead.
- Turn off cruise control โ stay in full control because systems may misinterpret icy/slushy surfaces.
- Activate headlights โ use low beams in falling snow, heavy snow, fog, or ice to improve visibility for all.
- Be cautious on bridges and shaded spots โ these freeze first; approach with steady speed and awareness.
- Use engine braking in manuals or automatics โ shift down or ease off the accelerator to reduce speed before braking to maintain traction.
๐ If You Start to Slide...
- Donโt panic or slam the brakes โ gently ease off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want the front of the car to go.
- If equipped with ABS, brake firmly and continue steering toward your intended path โ ABS helps prevent wheel lock-up.
๐ Driving Tips
- Stay alert and cautious โ continuously scan ahead since winter weather can change quickly; black ice, snow squalls, and blowing snow are unpredictable.
- Plan routes and timing โ check local forecasts and road conditions before you leave.
- Tell others your route โ inform someone of your itinerary, especially if traveling in isolated areas with potential poor mobile phone network coverage.
- Keep an emergency kit in the car โ include blankets, water, snacks, a torch, gloves, ice scraper, shovel & extra washer fluid
๐ Summary
- Preventive prep โ clear snow, check tires, lights, battery, wipers.
- Drive smart โ slow speeds, no cruise control, long following distance, steady control.
- React safely โ ease off gas, steer appropriately, and let ABS work if skid begins.
- Stay ready โ carry emergency kit, inform someone of your plans.
Stay safe out there! ๐ฎ๐