Winter has arrived and Tayside Police is reminding drivers to be prepared for the conditions they could face and to drive safely whatever the weather.
Following one of the mildest Novembers in recent memory – certainly less dramatic than in 2010 – the snow arrived in Tayside over the weekend. While there has been no significant weather-related incidents reported to the Force, it is vital that everyone prepares themselves for the elements with the cold snap likely to continue over the days ahead.
Throughout the winter season, drivers should take consideration of all weather conditions and environmental factors EVERY DAY, including snow, ice, high winds, heavy rain, fog and even low winter sun, as well as mud and other debris on the roads.
They are advised to do the following -
- Get their vehicle serviced.
- Ensure the cooling system in the vehicle is topped up with anti-freeze.
- Top up the windscreen washer bottles with a suitable windscreen wash and wash the screen regularly.
- Make sure the battery is fully charged.
- Keep lights clean. Spray from the roadway will reduce the effectiveness of the beam and indicators.
- Keep tyres correctly inflated and with sufficient tread, ideally 3mm or more.
- Check and replace wiper blades if necessary.
- Make sure windows and mirrors are kept clean and free of ice and snow in winter.
- Windows should be fully de-misted/de-iced before moving off. A low sun will seriously hamper vision and sunglasses are as useful now as they are in the summer.
Additionally they should consider the following items should be considered as essential -
- Ice Scraper and de-icer
- Torch
- Warm clothes and a blanket
- A pair of boots
- First aid kit
- Batteryjump leads
- A shovel (If it is likely to snow)
- Food and warm drink in a flask during particularly cold weather.
Drivers should also heed the following advice and information -
- Increase the gap between their vehicle and the one in front.
- On slippery roads it can take up to 10 times longer to stop.
- Drop their vehicle’s speed and allow more time to slow down. Stop by decelerating earlier, rather than relying on braking alone.
- Drive with care even if they think the roads have been treated.
- If they are unable to hear any road noise, this could be a sign they are driving on ice.
- Use dipped headlights so they can see and be seen.
- If it is very foggy (less than 100 metres visibility) then use fog lights, but switch them off whenever conditions improve or they will cause undue dazzle, which is an offence.
- Take care on flooded roads. The deepest water is usually nearest the kerb, select first gear and move forward immediately to avoid stalling the engine, while maintaining high engine revs. Test the brakes after passing through the water.
- On flood affected roads, if you vehicle loses grip, or aquaplanes, take your foot off the accelerator to slow down.
Anyone with any concerns about another vehicle, or the behaviour of another driver should call Tayside Police on 0300 111 2222, or speak to any officer.
