Prepare yourself for winter
Before the ice, snow and cold of winter arrives, be sure to take the time to prepare yourself for the season’s hazardous driving conditions. One of the simplest ways to do this is to check the weather forecast before getting behind the wheel.
Driving conditions can be unpredictable and can change several times throughout the day. Fortunately, the Met Office offers up-to-date reports through its National Severe Weather Warning Service. The free service provides a five-day forecast, which includes alerts for any potentially hazardous weather. Each alert details which region(s) the inclement weather is expected to strike and when. If you are interested in receiving weather alerts from the service, visit www.metoffice.gov.uk/public/weather/warnings.
By checking to see what the weather conditions will be along your route—even if it is your morning commute—you can stay ahead of any inclement weather. However, if weather conditions ever become too hazardous while you are on the road, remember to slow down, increase your following distance, and, if necessary, pull off to the hard shoulder.