Britain is bracing itself for turbulent weather throughout February, with snowfall predicted across certain regions, prompting motorists to get their vehicles winter-ready. Vehicle breakdowns are challenging at any time of year, but during winter months they pose particular risks, as rescue services may take considerably longer to reach stranded drivers.
National Highways is encouraging motorists to stock their cars with a kit of crucial supplies for the remainder of winter to help them remain "safe as possible" should an emergency arise. They advised: "It's worth carrying essential winter supplies just in case you need them, especially if there's a forecast for severe weather."
Whilst some items may appear self-evident, like an ice scraper, the agency is also recommending drivers keep sunglasses to hand "to cope with the low winter sun".
Though it may initially seem peculiar, motorists ought to keep sunglasses in their vehicles throughout winter, as they can significantly enhance road visibility. During winter months, the sun remains lower on the horizon at dawn and dusk, potentially shining straight into motorists' eyes whilst they're driving, reports the Express.
Sunlight bouncing off snow and ice can prove dazzling, occasionally more intense than on brilliant summer days, and may force drivers to strain their eyes for extended durations. Sunglasses simply help reduce glare, allowing motorists to spot road signs, pedestrians and black ice more easily.
Should your vehicle break down, sunglasses can also minimise eye strain and help you handle the situation more safely.
A winter kit might strike some motorists as over the top, but carrying the proper essentials in your vehicle during a breakdown could mean the difference between mild inconvenience and a perilous predicament.
Emergency services are typically overstretched when roads turn icy, so being prepared beats being sorry if you're stuck waiting in snowy conditions.
During severe weather, try to travel only when absolutely essential, and if driving becomes unavoidable, remember to reduce speed and accelerate smoothly to prevent skidding.
Frequent stops are par for the course in snowy weather, but avoid braking abruptly as this can lock up wheels and increase the likelihood of losing control on ice.
British Gas is also urging drivers to top up their tanks and keep them at least half full during snowy spells, as this prevents the fuel line from freezing during this period.
