‘Don't forget to check your brakes': Your guide to staying safe on the roads this winter

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by: Matt Robbins
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Word Count: 508
Date: Tue, 18 Jan 2011 Time: 5:50 AM
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Winter seems to come around sooner and sooner every year. The first batch of snowfall has already left large swathes of the country looking worthy of any Christmas card.

For drivers, the weather conditions that winter brings can be a source of worry, but following a few simple steps can help to keep you and your vehicle safe on the roads throughout the coming months.

Ready... Preparing your vehicle

‘Be prepared' is a motto shared by boy scouts and good motorists alike. One of the most important things you can do to get ready for winter is to have your car fully serviced. Above all, it's vital to make sure that your brakes are in excellent working order, as skidding on icy roads is one of the main causes of accidents in the winter.

Have your anti-freeze tested, as chances are that you'll need it. It's also important to keep the windows and windscreen clean for maximum visibility. Filling your washer bottle filled with screen wash at the right concentration will prevent it from freezing.

Avoid being stuck in the mornings by making sure that your battery is fully charged - if in doubt, throw it out! A replacement may well save you the inconvenience of being let down by a faulty battery.

A full service also covers your steering, suspension and exhausts system, and so is well worth the visit to your garage.

And lastly, don't forget to check your lights; keeping them clean and bright sounds like a basic point, but it can make a big difference to your visibility.
Set... What to take with you

Carry a good set of rescue equipment in the car with you; you never know when it might come in handy. Here's a selection of key items as recommended by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA):

• De-icing equipment
• First aid kit
• Car blanket
• Tow rope
• Spare bulbs
• Spare fuel
• Shovel

Go!

So you've had your brakes checked, stocked up on anti-freeze and found a shovel just in case. Now you're ready to hit the roads, here are a few tips for handling the main obstacles the winter throws in your path.
Snow and ice

Love it or hate it, it seems that snow is becoming something we can expect every winter. Use dipped headlights to minimise glare, and keep at a speed that you can comfortably stop at.

Avoid skidding by using the controls smoothly, having reliable brakes and keeping your tyres at the correct pressure.

Fog

Allow extra time for your journey, keep your speed down and maintain a good distance between your car and the one in front. Opening the window slightly to listen may improve your awareness of other vehicles on the road.
Dazzling sunlight

The glare of the low winter sun is a top hazard. Keeping the windscreen clean and free of grease goes a long way, as does wearing dark glasses. You should take these off as soon as the sun goes in, however, as they affect visibility, especially in dull weather.

About the Author

Matt Robbins - Online Manager of Halfords Autocentre (previously Nationwide Autocentre) have more ATA trained mechanics than any other independent garage group being the UK's leading provider of MOT, car servicing and repairs across the nation.
For all other enquiries, call 0800 096 4216.