- by Ray Bernard
RAC warns on snow driving
06 February 2003: Blizzard conditions throughout Ireland are making driving conditions extremely dangerous warns RAC. Some roads are impassable, especially over the high ground and RAC is urging motorists not to venture out unless their journey is absolutely necessary.
Many roads have been brought to a standstill due to accidents caused by thick snow and black ice; RAC is urging motorists to make sure that if they do have to travel they are prepared.
Robert Taylor, Managing Director, RAC Ireland comments, "Plan your journey and where possible use major routes which may have been gritted or salted. If you must travel wrap up warm and take a blanket, waterproof clothing and sensible footwear. Take some high-energy food such as chocolate or a caffeine-based drink. Carrying a thermos flask of hot soup is recommended on longer journeys."
RAC Ireland gives the following advice for motorists travelling in such conditions:
Consider telling someone of your departure time, route, destination and time of arrival.
If you take medication ensure you have extra supplies if necessary.
Take a mobile phone with you and remember to make sure it is fully charged.
Tune into local radio for information on local routes.
Before setting out use a windscreen scraper or a de-icer to remove ice from windows.
Don't use warm water as this may cause the windscreen to crack and carry a key de-icer .
Use the vehicle's air conditioning to help speed up the demisting of your windscreen.
Ensure you have enough fuel for your journey as vehicles use more fuel when driving in winter conditions .
In such severe weather conditions it is also advisable to carry a good tow rope, snow chains and a shovel.
If possible don't add to the problems on the road by breaking down, as many breakdowns can be easily avoided..
Check your battery. Wet and cold weather starting and driving conditions impose a much greater burden on the battery especially on short journeys (under 15 miles) when the engine doesn't have the time to replace the battery power drain. To minimise the drain motorists should switch off non-essential electrical equipment .
Check you have enough fuel for your journey. Vehicles use more fuel when driving in cold conditions.
Check oil and water levels and ensure you use antifreeze.
Check your tyre pressure and tread depth and don't forget the spare.
Make sure your screen wash bottle is full and contains the right amount of additive to help maintain a clear screen.
Check your windscreen. Lengthen your screen's life by having chips or cracks repaired.
Check headlights and indicators. Make sure lenses are free from damage and are kept clean to ensure you can see and be seen.
Check front and rear wiper blades for wear or splitting.
Check the condition of your car key as a worn key may cause the lock to jam. Replace the battery in your key fob to maintain operating performance.
Check you have adequate breakdown cover, as not all breakdowns are avoidable.
If you do breakdown, make sure you know where you are.
In the event of a breakdown on the motorway, follow the safety advice given.
©2003 irishcar.com