Stay safe this winter by knowing what not to do while driving in snowy and icy conditions
UK: Large parts of the UK are gearing up for a serious cold snap. The Met Office warns that temperatures could drop to minus 8C in rural Scotland and northern England. The UK Health Security Agency has even issued cold weather alerts for all of England as the chill sets in.
Amber alerts are in place from Thursday afternoon until January 8. The Met Office also predicts cold weather for parts of Wales and southern England, with temperatures hitting minus 4C to minus 5C. Dan Stroud, a meteorologist, mentioned that we can expect widespread frost overnight, from Land’s End to John O’Groats.
Driving in these conditions can be tricky, so it’s important to know what to avoid if you have to hit the road. First off, if you feel unsafe, just don’t drive. It’s always better to stay home if you’re unsure about your driving skills in the snow.
If you must go out, think about whether it’s really necessary. Also, never drive with a half-cleared windscreen. It might be tempting to just clear a small section, but that’s super dangerous. Wait for the whole thing to defrost, including your side windows and mirrors.
And don’t forget to clear any snow off your car’s roof. It can freeze solid and become a hazard for cars behind you. While there’s no specific law against it, you could still face penalties if it causes an accident.
Also, avoid using your wipers to de-ice your windscreen. They can freeze up and get damaged if you turn them on too soon. Instead, gently lift them away from the screen or use a bit of de-icer.
Pouring boiling water on your windscreen might seem like a quick fix, but it can crack the glass due to the sudden temperature change. Stick to a proper de-icer and scraper instead.
Lastly, don’t leave your car running unattended while it defrosts. It’s an open invitation for thieves, and it’s not great for the environment either. Stay with your car while it warms up.
