With current inclement weather conditions and low temperatures set to continue, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service as part of the Road Safety Partnership would like to you offer advice to all road users.

Allow significantly more time for your journey and travel within the capabilities of your vehicle and the road conditions, driving at a reduced speed while increasing the gap between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you to allow more time to stop safely.  It can take up to ten times longer to stop in icy conditions than on a dry road.

Snow chains will assist if your journey has to be made and involves travelling in snow conditions. Snow chains are not to be used unless the road is covered with snow, as they are not suitable to be used on uncovered roads or if the roads are simply icy.

Keep some additional clothing or blankets in your car and a torch just in case you become stranded. You may wish to keep a shovel and battery jump leads in your boot to assist in an emergency and make sure your mobile phone is fully charged. Tell someone at your destination what time you expect to arrive.

During this severe weather the emergency services make additional strategic arrangements to ensure resources are available to respond to emergencies, but demand often increases and it can take more time to respond and arrive onto the scene of an emergency.  So please reduce the risk and avoid driving if you can when the weather is severe.

Group Commander Andy Newland says: “Listen to the radio and television weather updates. Please think before you drive on ice or in the snow, ask yourself the question is my journey really essential? If it is then take the advice given by the highways authorities and contained within this article. If it is not then stay where you are and off the roads until the situation improves and become’s safer.”

If your journey is essential then ensure your vehicle is roadworthy, with sufficient tyre tread depth, efficient brakes and a full set of working lights. Carry a de-icer to ensure your windows are kept clear for visibility.
 
If you get into trouble

Do not use a mobile phone while driving. Stop somewhere safe or ask a passenger to make the call.
 
On a motorway, it is best to use a roadside emergency telephone, because the breakdown/emergency services will be able to locate you easily. If you have to use a mobile phone, make sure you know your location from the numbers on the marker posts on the side of the hard shoulder.
 
Abandoned vehicles can hold up rescue vehicles and snowploughs. To ensure that the road is cleared as quickly as possible, stay with your vehicle until help arrives.
 
If you have to leave your vehicle to get help, make sure other drivers can see you.

Call the 24 hr HA Information Line for live traffic reports (08457-504030) or listen to the latest reports online at:
www.trafficradio.org.uk <http://www.trafficradio.org.uk>

Ends

Note to Editors
The 24 hr Highways Agency press office number is 0207 081 7443.

For further information please contact Press Officer Suzie Izzard on 01392 872296 or email  sizzard@dsfire.gov.uk