Driving in snowy conditions

With snowfall sweeping across the south east of England, dubbed the Beast from the East, we’ve put together a check list of what to carry in your car, should you have to travel:

• 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
• Window cleaner spray
• Warm clothing, gloves and blankets
• 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
• Mobile phone

Driving in snow and ice

1. Set off in second gear, easing your foot off the clutch gently to avoid any wheel-spin.

2. 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. 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. 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.