Don’t get caught out. Be prepared and, even if the worst happens, you have the reassurance of knowing you have resources.
• Powerful torch with spare batteries
• Reflective triangle (and consider distress flares if you drive in remote rural or mountainous areas)
• First aid kit
• Ice scraper, de-icer spray, snow brush
• Window cleaner spray
• Matches, wrapped to exclude dampness, and a good penknife or scissors
• Warm clothing, gloves and blankets
• Wellingtons
• Bottled water
• Jump leads
• Snow shovel
• Tow rope
• Some large blocks of chocolate, nuts, dried fruit, camping-shop high energy and non-perishable food
• Sacks or old carpet to place beneath your wheels if you get stuck
• Your mobile phone and spare battery (using a car charger will run down your car battery)
Driving in snow and ice
1. Setting off: Set off in second gear, easing your foot off the clutch gently to avoid any wheel-spin.
2. Driving uphill: Avoid having to stop part way up by waiting until it is clear of other cars or by leaving plenty of room with the car in front. Keep a constant speed, choosing the most suitable gear well in advance to avoid having to change down on the hill.
3. Driving downhill: Reduce your speed before the hill, use a low gear and try to avoid using the brakes. Leave as much room as possible between you and the car in front.
4. Travel at a constant speed: Choose a suitable gear (generally second or third) when going up hills in icy conditions.
5. Remember your stopping distance: On snow and ice, you require a ten times greater distance in which to stop than in dry conditions.
Horner Blakey Insurance Brokers are one of the UK’s leading insurance brokers and recently won Bluefin’s Star Broker of the Year 2015. For a no obligation insurance review and to find out more about how we may be able to help you please call Horner Blakey Insurance Brokers on 020 7929 0108.
