How to drive in snow and ice

BY far the most sensible thing to do during bad weather is to stay at home. But if you do need to drive in the snow or ice, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents has the following advice:

Clear windows and mirrors completely of snow and ice before you set off. Make sure the heater is blowing warm air – it will keep your windscreen clear.

Use dipped headlights and travel at a speed that ensures you can stop safely. Always reduce your speed smoothly and in plenty of time on slippery surfaces. Avoid harsh braking and acceleration, or coarse steering.

Slow down in plenty of time for bends and corners. Black ice, caused when rain freezes on the road surface, will make your steering feel light. Respond by easing off the accelerator and being delicate with your steering movements.

To brake on ice and snow without locking your wheels, get into a low gear earlier than normal, allow your speed to fall and use your brakes gently.

In icy conditions, increase the gap between you and the vehicle in front. You may need to allow up to ten times the normal distance for braking.

Take care around winter maintenance vehicles. Salting vehicles are powerful and travel at about 35mph, spreading salt across all lanes of motorways and trunk roads. Keep a safe distance behind – do not try to overtake.

In snow, stop frequently to clean windows, wheel arches, lights and number plates. Skidding can be avoided through good observation, anticipation – and smooth use of the controls. Your risk of skidding increases if your tyres do not have adequate tread.

If you get stuck in snow, try to get out by moving slowly backwards and forwards in the highest gear you can.

Abandoned vehicles cause problems for rescue vehicles and snow ploughs. To ensure the road is cleared as quickly as possible, stay with your vehicle until help arrives. Do not leave the engine running, as this can lead to a dangerous build-up of fumes. If you have to leave your vehicle to get help make sure you can be seen by other vehicles.

Carry rescue equipment throughout the winter:

In the boot: Tow rope, spare bulbs, spare fuel, shovel, hazard warning triangle or similar, spare wheel (with tyre at correct pressure and tread), high visibility jacket, jump leads, emergency tyre weld (for temporary 'low speed' repairs), wellington boots or similar.

In the car: De-icing equipment, first-aid equipment (in good order), torch, car blanket, fire extinguisher.