Advice for severe weather

Dense fog

When a Met Office fog warning is issued, travel plans may need need to change and driving can be dangerous.

Tips for driving in dense fog include:

• drive slowly, using only dipped headlights 
• use your fog lights 
• beware of freezing fog

Heavy snow and ice

When colder weather is forecasted, make sure you know what to do:

• avoid travel if possible
• if you must travel - make sure you have warm clothes, food, water, boots, a torch, and a spade in your vehicle
• let someone know your route if you're driving, and when you expect to arrive
• take care around gritters
• slow down - it can take 10 times longer to stop in snow and ice
• use the highest gear to avoid wheel spin
• manoeuvre gently, avoiding harsh braking and acceleration. If you start to skip, gently ease off the accelerator, and avoid braking. If braking is necessary, pump the brakes rather than slamming them on
• if you get stuck, stay with your car and tie something brightly coloured to your aerial

Colder temperatures also mean heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory infections are all much more likely. Keep in touch with vulnerable neighbours, friends and family who may be at risk.