Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service is calling on all residents to take extra care when driving this winter, with 138 Road Traffic Collisions having already been recorded across our Service area
Road Safety Manager, Station Manager Spencer Lewis, said:
“With the numbers of RTC recorded this winter so far, its imperative that we take more care on the roads to help reduce this number”
“Driving during poor wintry conditions requires a different approach and by making some simple changes to driving habits, drivers can reduce their chances of being involved in a collision”
He added, “At this time of year, driving conditions can be treacherous. I urge motorists to be prepared to drive with care and adjust their driving to suit the conditions”
We strongly advice that if you do need to undertake an essential journey, make sure your car is winter ready by giving it a winter service as breakdowns are more common this time of year. It’s important that you check your tyre conditions, tread depth and pressure of all tyres including your spare tyre. We also recommend putting together a winter emergency kit which should contain the following essential items: ice-scraper and de-icer, a high-visibility vest, warning triangle, mobile phone for use only when parked, torch, snacks, bottled water, blanket, warm clothes, boots and a first-aid kit.
Also bear in mind the following safety advice before embarking on your journey.
- Check weather forecasts and traffic news, both local and national regularly
- Keep your windscreen clear and regularly top up your washer bottle with screen wash, keep windows and mirrors thoroughly demisted and clear of ice and snow.
- Inform someone of your intended route and time of arrival
- Keep your distance as stopping distances are ten times longer in ice and snow
- Adapt your driving to icy conditions. Avoid harsh braking and acceleration or sharp steering and most importantly remember to reduce your speed.
Visit our Road Safety pages for more information or contact a member of the Road Safety Team at RTC@mawwfire.gov.uk
You can also follow us on our Social Media channels for more safety messages. Twitter – @mawwfire, Facebook – @mawwfire and Instagram – mawwfire_rescue
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