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Winter storms and extreme cold

Heavy snowfall and extreme cold can immobilise an entire region. You can protect yourself, your car and your household from the many hazards of winter, by thinking and planning ahead.

Winter driving

In cold conditions always drive with extra care and never assume that a road has been salted. No road can ever be guaranteed to be free of ice or snow.

• Ask the question ‘Is my journey necessary?’ if not, then don’t travel.
• Find out if you can get to your destination using public transport.
• Always check the weather forecast before starting your trip.
• Plan your journey.
• Allow extra time for your journey.
• Run your car engine for a few minutes before starting your trip to help clear the windscreen.
• Ensure your vehicle has suitable anti-freeze added to its radiator and low-freezing screen-wash to the washer bottle.
• Ensure that your vehicle is in good working order – wash all lights and indicators frequently.
• Tune into your local radio station for regular travel news updates.
• Use dipped headlights when driving during periods of rain, fog or snow.
• Ensure you have enough fuel for the journey

Have an emergency supply kit in your car, in case you break down or get stuck. Think about including these items:

• Warm coat, extra hat and mittens.
• Torch and extra batteries, or wind-up torch.
• Shovel.
• Windscreen scraper.
• Battery-powered radio and extra batteries, or wind up radio.
• Water and snacks.
• Tow chain or rope.
• Jump leads.
• Mobile phone
• First aid kit

If you get stuck in a winter storm:

• Pull off the road. Turn on hazard lights and hang a distress flag from the radio aerial or window.
• Remain in your vehicle where rescuers are most likely to find you. Only leave the car if buildings are nearby where you know you can take shelter. Distances are distorted by blowing snow. A building may seem close but may be too far to walk in deep snow.
• Run the engine and heater for about 10 minutes each hour to keep warm. When the engine is running, open a window slightly for ventilation to protect you from carbon monoxide poisoning. Periodically clear snow from the exhaust pipe.
• Exercise to maintain body heat, but avoid over-exertion. Huddle with passengers and use your coat as a blanket.
• Take turns sleeping, so you see the rescue crews.
• Drink fluids to avoid dehydration.
• Don’t waste battery power, but at night, if rescuers are nearby turn on the inside light so rescuers can see you.
• Invest in a high intensity pocket strobe light to attract attention.