Driver warning ahead of arctic blast forecast
Ahead of the predicted cold blast and possible snow in northern parts of the UK on Friday, road safety and breakdown cover organisation GEM Motoring Assist is issuing important advice to prepare road users for the early wintry weather heading our way.
GEM, voted the UK’s Number One for roadside assistance, is committed to helping drivers make their car journeys run as smoothly as possible and the first rule is....be prepared! David Williams from GEM Motoring Assist comments, “Last year, thousands of drivers were unprepared for the season’s first snowfall in December. With the threat happening so early, even more are likely to be caught out!”
“It is imperative that motorists are properly prepared for the weather at its coldest and most challenging. Poor weather, decreased visibility and bad road conditions during winter not only increase the risk of accidents but also contribute to a rise in breakdown situations, which in turn are more hazardous in dark and wintry conditions.”
David continues, “Always fully service your car before the winter draws in anddon’t forget to keep your boot filled with emergency supplies. Essentials for winter journeys include warm clothing, a blanket, a small shovel, a torch, a triangle, a reflective or fluorescent jacket or tabard, a bottle of water and some cash. Remember to check the weather at your destination, give yourself plenty of time to get there, clear your car of all ice, snow and debris before setting off and don’t take the journey if it is not necessary and may be dangerous. And of course make sure you have your breakdown membership details handy in case of any trouble.”
GEM has developed a detailed Winter Driving leaflet that can be downloaded for free from the GEM website at motoringassist.com/leaflets.
A few top tips in case of a winter breakdown:
1. Consider you own safety first – if possible get your vehicle off the road and ensure all passengers are safe and be careful of ice
2. Do not stand between your vehicle and oncoming traffic and wear a fluorescent tabard or jacket as visibility may be reduced
3. If you are on a motorway, get out of the car and wait for help to arrive – this is why you will need your blankets and gloves! On smaller roads remain in the vehicle
4. Warn other road users – switch on your hazard warning lights if you are causing an obstruction and put a warning triangle behind you, but never use a triangle on a motorway
5. Call for help using your mobile phone and give clear details of your location, no. of passengers and cause of breakdown
