The UK is expected to experience chaotic weather in February, with snow forecast in some areas, and drivers have been asked to prepare for these unpredictable conditions. Car breakdowns are stressful no matter the season but in winter they can be dangerous as it can take a much longer time for roadside assistance services to locate you.
National Highways is urging drivers to take the time to place a bag filled with essential items in your vehicle for the rest of winter to ensure you stay “safe as possible” in case of an emergency. They said: “It's worth carrying essential winter supplies just in case you need them, especially if there's a forecast for severe weather.” Some of these items might seem obvious to have, such as an ice scraper, but the organisation is also asking drivers to have a pair of sunglasses ready “to cope with the low winter sun”.
It might sound unusual at first, but drivers should carry sunglasses in their car in winter, as it can greatly improve their visibility. In winter, the sun sits lower in the sky when rising or setting, which can shine directly into drivers’ eyes during their commute.
Sunlight reflecting off snow and ice can also be blinding, sometimes even worse than on a bright summer’s day, and it can cause drivers to squint for long periods of time.
Sunglasses simply help reduce glare, to allow drivers to see road signs, pedestrians and black ice more clearly. If your car ever does break down, sunglasses can also reduce eye strain and make it easier to navigate the situation safely.
A winter kit can seem excessive to some drivers, but having the right items in your car in case of a breakdown can be the difference between minor discomfort and a dangerous situation.
Emergency services tend to be stretched thin when roads are icy, so it is much better to be prepared than sorry if you have to wait in snowy weather, just in case.
When the weather is severe try to only travel when necessary, and if you have to drive make sure to slow down and accelerate gently to avoid skidding.
It is normal to have to stop repeatedly when it is snowing, but try to not break suddenly as it can lock up a wheel and make it more likely the ice will cause you to lose control of the vehicle.
British Gas are also asking drivers to fill up their cars and ensure they are at least half full in snowy conditions as it also stops the fuel line freezing at this time of year.