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As the snow begins to fall and the cold weather comes in please help keep yourself and others safe on the roads. Before starting a journey check: your tyre pressures are at the recommended level and that your tread depth is correct (don't forget your spare!)your vehicle lights are clean and in working orderyour wiper system is working effectively, washer bottles are full and contain a suitable additive to prevent freezingyour battery is in good condition and chargedwindows and mirrors are completely clear of ice and condensationa can of de-icer and ice scraper is in your car. you could cover your windscreen with a blanket or similar overnight to reduce the impact of freezing temperaturesconsider having a blanket and a shovel in the car, particularly for longer journeys. As a road user you have a responsibility for yourself, your passengers and other road users. Here are some suggestions to assist in having a safe journey: as above ensure your car is in good conditionconsider whether the journey is necessarycheck the latest weather information. plan your route - check for road closures informationallow additional travelling time, traffic may be slower than usual.ensure your eyesight is up to the relevant standard (have them checked every 2 years at least).tell someone your plansconsider joining a recognised breakdown/ recovery service. travel slowly and at a safe distance from the vehicle in front to avoid harsh braking or steering (refer to the highway code for stopping/ braking distances)use dipped headlights when visibility is poorensure your headlights are dipped when any vehicle or pedestrian is in front of you or you are in a built up area. use main roads (or bus routes) which have been treated with saltremember dawn frost occurs on dry roads when early morning dew falls on cold road surfaces and freezes on impacthave sunglasses in the car in case of need (in winter it is lower in the sky!) remember other road users might not be as experienced as yourself in winter driving. Please do not rush and please take extra care and have patience! Let's be safe this winter and keep our roads running smoothly. | 
