Police issue winter driving tips

With snow expected in the county, Northamptonshire Police is advising motorists to drive carefully in the forecasted icy conditions.
Drivers are being reminded to leave plenty of time for journeys and make sure they drive appropriately for the weather, taking care to adjust speeds and to make sure they leave plenty of space between themselves and the vehicle in front.
A police spokesman also urged people to make sure they fully defrost their cars before they start out on the roads. He said: “It is important that motorists drive appropriately to the conditions they face and adapt as necessary.
“Motorists who do not defrost their cars completely before setting off and who drive inappropriately to the conditions they find themselves in are not only putting themselves at risk, but other road users and pedestrians.”
The amount of crime on vehicles can also increase during freezing conditions as people leave their cars unattended while defrosting them.
The spokesman added: “It is vital that vehicles are clear of any snow and ice before being driven, but we would advise motorists to stay with their vehicle while it is defrosting.
“In the past we have had incidents where engines have been left running by the owners who have returned inside, only to have the vehicle stolen by opportunist thieves.”
Police also issued the following driving tips:

Winter driving tips:

o  Allow extra time for your journey and let someone know the route you will be taking
o Use your headlights and fog lights in thick fog, but remember to turn them off when the weather has cleared
o Slow down – lower you speed in poor visibility or poor road conditions.
o Keep a good distance from the vehicle in front and anticipate what other vehicles might do – they might not be able to stop quickly
o Look out for the tell-tale glistening on road surfaces in icy conditions
o When stopping, brake lightly to avoid skidding
o Don’t make any sudden manoeuvres – drive as smoothly as you can
o If the weather conditions are very poor do not travel unless you really have to
· Be prepared;
o Anti-freeze – add anti-freeze to the radiator of your car. Also, to help keep your windscreen clean, add winter additive to the windscreen wash
o Battery – keep your battery fully charged
o Service – make sure your car has had a service and is well maintained
o Lights – make sure that all lights are working
o Tyres – your tyres should have the correct amount of air in them, and have plenty of tread depth
o Wipers – change the blades on your windscreen wipers if they are worn
o Windows – clear your windows and mirrors so that it is easier to see out. The glare of the low winter sun can make it difficult to see through dirty windscreens

* Create an emergency kit to keep in the back of your car, including;
o Ice scraper and de-icer
o Torch
o Warm clothes and blanket
o Food and drink
o Boots
o First-aid kit
o Battery jump leads
o Small spade