It is important that your vehicle is fit to drive in the full range of conditions that you are likely to experience, including the heat, rain and cold weather. Usually, services and regular checking of fluids and tyre pressure will help your vehicle (and you) to stay safe, but sometimes there are circumstances that are impossible to foresee. Breaking down is never fun, but breaking down in the winter can be especially stressful. We look at basic things you can do so that you are prepared in case of a winter emergency.
Check Ahead
We’ve said it before and we will say it again: UK weather is unpredictable! It can literally be snowing one minute and sunny the next, so it can be hard to decide whether or not to risk a journey. Always check the weather ahead of a journey and look in particular for weather warnings. If high winds, frost, snow or torrential rains are predicted, consider whether your journey is essential; if not, it is wise to postpone until a safer time.
Create an Emergency Pack
It sounds a bit melodramatic, but it costs nothing to keep an emergency pack in the boot of your car, just in case you need it. This is a contingency for the worst-case scenario: you are stuck somewhere, help won’t be coming for hours, and it is cold (or freezing). In your emergency pack, place a torch and batteries, a few candles, matches, two blankets, a couple of bottles of water, charging pack for your phone, a tool kit, first aid kit and some snacks which don’t go out of date and can be left in the car, just in case.
Stay in Touch
No matter how experienced a driver you are, it is always a good idea to let people know where you are going, particularly if you plan on taking a route that is not frequented by other vehicles. If you do break down or get your car stuck in flood, mud or snow, call recovery services first and then contact anyone who may be expecting you or a loved one to let them know where you are and that you are safe.
Keep Warm
If you do get stuck and it is cold, wrap up warm; it is easier to stay warm than to get yourself warm again once you are cold. It may be tempting to put the car’s heating on full blast, but this will drain the battery. Start by putting your coat and any other layers on. If you need to put the heater on, run the engine, too; this will help the battery to recharge.
Don’t Panic!
Nobody enjoys breaking down but the fact is that, in this day and age, help is likely to be on its way very soon.
While it is always best to be prepared, it is extremely unlikely that you will need to use your emergency pack. The best way to get peace of mind when driving at any time of year is to make sure that you have a good roadside assistance service to help, should you need it.