Be prepared for Bank Holiday breakdowns
Breakdown cover and road safety organisation GEM Motoring Assist is warning motorists to ‘Be Prepared’ for the busy bank holiday weekends. The ‘boy scout’ approach could not only save you holiday heartache but also lots of money too.
With millions of families setting off on weekend breaks or braving the journey to London for the Royal Wedding, the main piece of advice from GEM is to make sure you have adequate breakdown cover. There is no good time to break down, but with breakdown vehicles set to be stretched to the max, it is important to make sure you are fully prepared. On the spot breakdown cover is extremely expensive and is only ever a last minute resort should you get caught out.
GEM’s top tips to being prepared:
1. Before you set off on any long journey, check your tyres, battery, oil level, coolant system, windscreen, screenwash, lights, fuel and mirrors
2. Watch for changes to the feel of your car and look out for strange noises or smells and investigate
3. Plan your journey and have clear directions
4. Keep an up-to-date road map in your car or make sure you have a handy Sat Nav to help you
5. Check you have up-to-date breakdown membership and don’t forget your card/policy number
6. Ensure you have a high visibility jacket/tabard and warning triangle in your boot
7. Fully charge your mobile the night before, and for extra safety keep an in car charger with you (not for use whist driving or near fuel)
8. Even though temperatures are rising, always have warm waterproof clothing
9. Make sure you have the manufacturers handbook for your car and don’t ignore warning lights
10. It is a good idea to keep a tow rope, first aid kit, torch and spare bulbs in your boot
David Williams, MBE, CEO of GEM Motoring Assist comments, “Too often there are drivers who have no breakdown cover whatsoever, meaning they are left in a very tricky situation should something go wrong. Breakdown cover does not have to be expensive; in fact there are lots of great value deals to take advantage of. On the spot cover costs double on the first payment so make sure you are always prepared in advance, especially if you are planning on travelling across the country over the bank holidays.”
GEM has developed a concise and informative ‘Motorists’ Breakdown and Emergency Guide’ leaflet available to download free from the website motoringassist.com/leaflets. GEM recommends everyone keep a copy in their glove box to read carefully before taking action in a breakdown situation.
