National Highways has urged drivers to carry one unexpected item that can improve safety during low winter sun and icy conditions
Drivers are being asked to prepare a winter kit for their car in case the weather is severe in February(Image: Getty)
Britain is bracing for turbulent weather throughout February, with snowfall predicted in certain regions, prompting motorists to prepare for these uncertain conditions. Vehicle breakdowns are stressful at any time of year, but during winter they can pose serious risks, as roadside recovery services may take considerably longer to reach stranded drivers.
National Highways is encouraging motorists to keep a bag of crucial items in their vehicles for the remainder of winter to help them remain “safe as possible” should an emergency arise. They stated: “It’s worth carrying essential winter supplies just in case you need them, especially if there’s a forecast for severe weather.”
Whilst some items may appear self-evident, such as an ice scraper, the organisation is also recommending drivers keep sunglasses to hand “to cope with the low winter sun”.
Why are sunglasses necessary in your vehicle during winter?
Whilst it may initially appear peculiar, motorists should keep sunglasses in their vehicles during winter months, as they can significantly enhance visibility. During winter, the sun remains lower on the horizon at sunrise and sunset, which can beam straight into drivers’ eyes throughout their journey, reports the Express.
Sunlight bouncing off snow and ice can prove dazzling, occasionally more intense than on a brilliant summer’s afternoon, and can force drivers to squint for extended periods. Sunglasses serve a practical purpose by minimising glare, enabling motorists to spot road signs, pedestrians and black ice with greater clarity.
Should your vehicle break down, they can also help reduce eye fatigue and make it simpler to handle the situation safely.
What items should be included in a winter car kit?
- Ice scraper
- De-icer
- Fully charged mobile and car charger
- Torch and extra batteries
- Snow shovel
- Bottles of water
- Food (protein bars, trail mix, dried fruit, chocolate, etc)
- Warm clothes
- Blankets
- Boots
- Sunglasses
While a winter kit may appear unnecessary to some motorists, having appropriate items in your vehicle during a breakdown could mean the difference between mild inconvenience and a potentially hazardous predicament.
Emergency services are typically under considerable strain when road conditions are icy, making it far preferable to be prepared rather than caught out if you find yourself waiting in snowy conditions.
During severe weather, attempt to travel only when essential, and if driving becomes unavoidable, ensure you reduce speed and accelerate smoothly to prevent skidding.
It’s common to need to stop frequently in snowy conditions, but try to avoid braking abruptly as this can cause a wheel to lock up and increase the likelihood of ice causing you to lose control of your vehicle.
British Gas is also advising motorists to keep their fuel tanks topped up, maintaining at least half a tank in snowy weather, as this helps prevent the fuel line from freezing during this period of the year.
