Top tips for driving in snow and icy conditions

TEMPERATURES are dropping across the country and heavy snow fall and ice is forecast in the coming days.

Driving in these conditions can be unsettling and dangerous, preparation is key to staying safe on the roads in this hazardous weather.

Black ice can cause skidding, low sunlight reflects off the snow dazzling drivers and radiators can freeze.

With that in mind, here’s some tips from Carzone to stay safe and survive some of the worst conditions you’ll find on Irish roads.

• Only drive when it’s necessary!

• Plan your route: Stick to the main roads which are safer and more likely to be gritted.

• Get a full tank of fuel: Then if you do happen to get stranded you can keep the engine running to keep warm.

• Bring a bag of supplies: Be prepared for any problems or delays. Bring food, water, warm clothes, a blanket, torch, first aid kit, fully charged mobile phone, jump leads, shovel, ice scraper, de-icing fluid and grit/sand/cat litter (for traction if you get stuck)

• Make sure your car is fit to travel: Check basic items, like all your fluids are topped up and your tyres aren’t worn out.

• Clear the entire windscreen with de-icer fluid or scraper, not just a peephole: Make sure the window wipers aren’t stuck to the window. Also clear the side and rear mirrors, front and back lights, door mirrors and number plate.

• Clear any snow off the roof of your car: This can easily slide down while driving and block your view again.

• Steer, accelerate and brake smoothly: Abrupt changes and manoeuvres can result in loss of grip and control.

• Listen to the surface: If the sudden crunch of driving on snow stops, you may be on ice.

-If you skid: Don’t break, this may prolong the skid. Take your foot of the accelerator and way for the skid to stop. If you begin to spin, steer in the car in the direction the rear of your car is sliding. Don’t overcorrect, or you’ll need to turn in the opposite direction