Drivers urged to prepare for winter weather

Drivers are being urged to make time for winter to ensure they are prepared for any winter conditions which may affect their car, reports hgvuk.com.

While the Highways Agency is preparing for the winter by sending out "500 state of the art winter vehicles on stand-by" and harbouring stocks of more than a quarter of a million tonnes of salt, drivers need to take their own precautions on their vehicle.

Depending on the contract length, it is likely this will affect those tied down to long term car hire, so carrying an emergency driving kit will be helpful if a vehicle breaks down to the blustery conditions.

Ppconstructionsafety.com suggest an emergency kit should contain an ice scraper and de-icer, a torch, warm clothes and a blanket, a pair of boots, battery jump leads and many more emergency items in case of a breakdown.

Roads Minister Mike Penning commented on the upcoming weather: "Not every journey is essential in severe weather, but if you really must travel in the worst conditions, check your vehicle before you set out; take a severe weather emergency kit; check traffic and weather conditions and always plan your journey.

"For more information and advice I'd urge all drivers to make time for winter and visit the Highways Agency's website, where there are lots of tips to help keep winter journeys safe and trouble free," he added.