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On speaking to the BBC, Dan Ashton of the Automobile Association (AA) recommended that you only drive if absolutely necessary and gave the following tips to drivers who did need to set out on car journeys after the recent weather seen in the UK, with snow and ice posing a major risk.

Prepare your car:

• Clear your car of all snow and ice. This includes your windscreen, roof and bonnet. It is important to clear the roof because snow could fall onto your windscreen when braking, leading to an obscured view.
• Make sure that your lights are clear of snow so you know they will be producing enough light to make other drivers aware of you.
• Be sure to check your number plates are clear of snow so they can be read.
• Check that your windscreen wipers aren’t frozen to the windscreen. Pull them away from the windscreen carefully and clear ice and snow away from the area in which they usually sit.
• Make sure you have enough fuel to get you where you are going.

Prepare yourself:

• Although wellies are a popular choice for people walking in snowy conditions, they are not good to drive in because you won’t be able to feel the pedals and your feet may slip off them when needed the most.
• Make sure you wear good warm clothes. “Don’t treat your car as an overcoat” said Mr Ashton. If your car were to breakdown you will need to keep yourself warm.

Prepare for a breakdown:

• Carry a mobile telephone with an adequately charged battery and ample credit in case you need to call for help.
• Carry a big warm blanket in the car to keep you warm.
• Keep a drink in the car, and some light food, so you are comfortable while waiting for help.

Prepare for the unexpected:

• Plan ahead when driving.
• Brake sooner so you don’t brake suddenly and skid, which will happen a lot more easily in icy conditions.

Don’t forget to carry details of your breakdown cover provider with you, as well as proof of your cover, so that you can call for help.