Vehicle preparation key as the big freeze gets underway

It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas. And hopefully this year, more of us will be seeing family and friends. Whether you’re making a local journey or travelling afield, make sure you adjust your driving to the conditions and ensure your car is winter ready before you set out.

While we may all be hoping for a white Christmas, nine out of ten accidents occur in the rain. The following advice is offered by the Met Office: “If it’s time for your wipers, it’s time to slow down.” Plan your journey and try to stick to the main routes, especially if it is snowing. Leave extra time and let someone know what time you expect to arrive.

Make sure you have everything you will need in your car in case you are delayed or break down – warm clothes, boots and a torch – and don’t forget to charge your mobile phone. It’s also a good idea to have some food and drink (non-alcoholic of course).

Traci Handford from Sunrise Service & MOT Centre in Blandford offers the following advice:

• Tyres – make sure they are safe by having enough tread and ensure they’re at the correct pressure
• Screen wash – make sure it’s topped up and at the correct dilution to prevent it from freezing. Grit on the road quickly dirties your windscreen, so it’s particularly important when the gritter lorries are out
• General maintenance – check anti-freeze, inspect all your lights and make sure they are clean and working, check your oil and top up if necessary

Given the recent battering we’ve had from both Storms Arwen and Barra, whether it’s a white Christmas or a damp one, be prepared, drive carefully and have a safe and joyful time.