25 November 2010

WITH forecasters predicting a risk of snow over the next few days, winter appears to be arriving.

The current warning for the area is summarised on the Met Office website at http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/uk/se/se_forecast_warnings.html

While many people will be looking forward to the snow, firefighters are asking drivers to treat the roads with extra caution at this time of year.

Terry Ridgley, Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service's community safety manager, said: "The best advice for drivers is to stay off the roads during severe weather. However, if you must make a journey, there are a number of things you can do to make sure you stay safe on the road.

"Before you make any journey this winter you should make sure your car is in a suitable condition and you are well equipped for the weather conditions.

"Always plan ahead if you have to make a journey - make sure you check weather forecasts and travel information before you leave, and always take warm clothes, water and food on every journey.

"Drivers should bear in mind that it can take 10 times longer to stop in icy conditions than on a dry road. Keep your distance and never assume there is no ice on the road just because you can't see it."

Terry offerered the following advice for drivers to help them stay safe this winter:

• Travel only if it is absolutely necessary, and allow more time for your journey.
  
  
• Listen to local and national radio for travel and weather information:
  BBC Three Counties Radio - 90.4, 92.1, 94.7, 95.5, 98, 103.8, 104.5 FM
  Heart - 97.6, 103.3 FM
  Mix 96 - 96.2 FM
  Time 106.6 - 106.6 FM
  
  
• Slow down and leave extra space between you and the vehicle in front.
  
  
• Be prepared when travelling in snow – carry an ice-scraper, de-icer, torch, warm clothes, blanket, boots, spade, food, drink and first aid kit in your vehicle.
  
  
• Check your tyres, lights, wiper blades, anti-freeze and battery, and keep windows and mirrors clear of ice and condensation.
  
  
• Tell someone at your destination what time you expect to arrive.
  
  
• Make sure you are equipped with warm clothes, food, boots and a torch. In snowy conditions, take a spade.
  
  
• In winter it is even more important to make sure your vehicle is well maintained and serviced.
  
  
• Keep the lights, windows and mirrors clean and free from ice and snow.
  
  
• It takes much longer to stop in icy conditions than on a dry road. Drive slowly, allowing extra room to slow down and stop.
  
  
• Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin.
  
  
• To brake on ice or snow without locking your wheels, get into a low gear earlier than normal, allow your speed to fall and use the brake pedal gently.
  
  
• If you start to skid, ease off the accelerator, but do not brake suddenly.