Having recently spent 6 hours stuck on a snowbound road on the Penines, I know all too well the dangers of driving in the harsh conditions currently sweeping much of Europe.
Obviously if you don’t have to drive then don’t. Sit in your warm home and watch the travel report on the TV. However, if you do have to drive then a bit of preparation can help you avoid the worse.
First, check the route and don’t just listen to the first directions provided by your satnav. With AutoAlert I can get the directions from my vehicle to my destination. However, rather than taking the first route offered – over the Pennines. Perhaps I should have thought first and then taken a slightly longer route south, sticking to the bigger roads and motorways which was always going to be the more sensible option.
Once you have selected a route, check the traffic conditions and weather if you can.
Ensure your vehicle is serviced, the battery is charged and the tyres are not worn to reduce the chance of mechanical wear and tear leaving you stuck whilst everyone else drives off into the sunset.
Top up the water in your windscreen washers and ensure it has anti freeze. The screen soon gets clogged with snow and grit making visibility difficult.
A bit of practice is always good. Ok, so we got in trouble when we were young skidding our parents cars around disused car parks. However, understanding how your car will react and knowing how to get the best traction will reduce stress whilst everyone else is skidding into each other or finding it impossible to get up hills.
Keep some extra jumpers and socks in the boot of your car. Perhaps if your are extra cautious then take a duvet as well. Hopefully the snow in the UK is never going to be as bad other countries but with a bit of wind and heavy drifts you never know.
If your car does get covered in snow then be wary of carbon monoxide poisoning. Ensure the exhaust pipe is spewing its noxious fumes into the clear environment rather than back into the cabin and don’t keep the engine on continually if you can help it.
Some chocolate, food and hot drinks will also help if you’re stuck for a while and take something to keep you occupied. There’s only so much you can take from a Radio DJ.
Make sure people know where you are going. If you have AutoAlert installed then friends and colleagues can track your progress. If not, at least ensure your phone is charged and that you have notified people before you leave.
Other than that, Sit back, relax and enjoy the countryside at a speed in which you actually get to see it.