Winter is coming, which means darker nights and colder weather as well as the lingering possibility of snow and ice.
Working within the north-east road policing unit at Inverurie, the change in weather requires starting to think about getting vehicles ready for winter to help ensure everyone’s safety on our roads.
I’m an authorised advanced police driver and have lived in the north-east my whole life, so, I know how quickly conditions can turn and how treacherous they can be.
A good bit of preparation and common sense can go a long way, though.
Please ensure your vehicle is roadworthy and fit to drive, ensuring:
- Your tyres have adequate tread and are in a good condition
- That you have plenty of screen wash
- Your wipers are free from rips and tears
- That your lights are working
All of those things can make all the difference in ensuring your journey is safe and uninterrupted.
Cars consume more fuel in the cold
A good practice is to try and keep a good level of fuel in your motor vehicle, which might seem a bit of an ask in the current climate but your vehicle will consume more fuel in the cold.
It’s up to you to ensure that you will not find yourself stranded.
Another good tip is to try to keep a winter kit within your car- a blanket, torch, scraper or de-icer, small shovel and spare screen wash.
A dry change of clothes is always handy, including a change of socks and shoes.
Visibility for your journey
As the bad weather comes, the council will be out gritting the roads which will keep routes clear of snow and ice.
However, it will also cause your vehicle to become excessively dirty, which can obstruct your vehicle’s lights.
Keep on top of cleaning your vehicle to ensure that your lights are not obstructed front and back.
Allow them to be as bright as they can be, ensuring you can see and can be seen in the dark mornings and nights.
When starting your vehicle, ensure you clear your windscreen of snow and ice completely prior to moving off, giving you the best visibility for your journey.
Slippery when wet
A good practice is to know your route to and from where you are going prior to leaving as, when the cold weather and snow comes, minor routes can become impassable for certain vehicles and an alternative route may be required.
Most importantly, drive to the road and conditions you find yourself in.
A slippery road surface can quickly cause you to lose grip and control of your vehicle.
Try and stick to main roads – advice I know can be hard to follow in the north-east, where the road network often requires you to take minor routes.
Be sensible if the weather is extreme. Is your journey really urgent or necessary? Don’t put yourself in danger.
More information
The road policing unit will be out in all weather to assist this winter.
If you are unsure about how to check your vehicle, there will be upcoming open days when police officers can check it for you.
These dates should be shared on the north-east division’s social media or alternatively, take your vehicle to a reputable garage for a check-up.
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