Police issue warning in case the snow comes
Thursday, 17th December 2009.
With heavy snow forecast for later today (Thursday) and tonight in Suffolk, police have issued renewed warnings to motorists about driving in icy conditions.
The Met Office issued a severe weather warning for Suffolk and other southern counties tonight as a band of snow is approaching from Russia.
Up to eight inches could fall on higher ground in places, although the Haverhill area is expected to escape the worst of it and may only receive a light dusting.
If travelling in bady affected areas
Suffolk Police are urging motorists to be alert and take extra care.
Chief Inspector Mike Bacon, from the Constabulary’s Roads Policing Unit, says: “It is inevitable that the cold weather will make driving more hazardous, but there are a few simple precautions that any driver can take:
“Only undertake necessary journeys if it is icy and keep an eye on the weather forecast.
“If you have to go out, take a fully charged mobile phone and emergency clothing and warm drinks.
“Make sure your vehicle is up to scratch, with well maintained lights and tyres and carry de-icer. Importantly don't drive until the windscreen is free from frost or mist.
“Allow more time for your journey with additional stops en route, as winter driving tends to be more demanding. And if there are poor weather conditions and visibility, remember to slow down and use dipped headlights.”
Suffolk Police’s top tips for winter driving include:
During wintry weather conditions:
• Ask yourself – is your journey essential?
• Check the local and national weather forecasts.
• Listen to local and national radio for travel information.
• Tell someone at your destination what time you expect to arrive.
• Make sure you are equipped with warm clothes, food, boots and a torch. In snowy conditions, take a spade.
• Clear your windows and mirrors before you set out and carry a screen scraper and de-icer.
Adjust your driving to the conditions
• Hail, heavy snow and rain reduce visibility.
• Use dipped headlights and reduce your speed.
• Dazzle from winter sun can be dangerous. Keep a pair of sunglasses handy and slow down.
The Met Office issued a severe weather warning for Suffolk and other southern counties tonight as a band of snow is approaching from Russia.
Up to eight inches could fall on higher ground in places, although the Haverhill area is expected to escape the worst of it and may only receive a light dusting.
If travelling in bady affected areas
Suffolk Police are urging motorists to be alert and take extra care.
Chief Inspector Mike Bacon, from the Constabulary’s Roads Policing Unit, says: “It is inevitable that the cold weather will make driving more hazardous, but there are a few simple precautions that any driver can take:
“Only undertake necessary journeys if it is icy and keep an eye on the weather forecast.
“If you have to go out, take a fully charged mobile phone and emergency clothing and warm drinks.
“Make sure your vehicle is up to scratch, with well maintained lights and tyres and carry de-icer. Importantly don't drive until the windscreen is free from frost or mist.
“Allow more time for your journey with additional stops en route, as winter driving tends to be more demanding. And if there are poor weather conditions and visibility, remember to slow down and use dipped headlights.”
Suffolk Police’s top tips for winter driving include:
During wintry weather conditions:
• Ask yourself – is your journey essential?
• Check the local and national weather forecasts.
• Listen to local and national radio for travel information.
• Tell someone at your destination what time you expect to arrive.
• Make sure you are equipped with warm clothes, food, boots and a torch. In snowy conditions, take a spade.
• Clear your windows and mirrors before you set out and carry a screen scraper and de-icer.
Adjust your driving to the conditions
• Hail, heavy snow and rain reduce visibility.
• Use dipped headlights and reduce your speed.
• Dazzle from winter sun can be dangerous. Keep a pair of sunglasses handy and slow down.
Comment on this story
[board listing] [login] [register]
You must be logged in to post messages. (login now)