We will often say to our customers when they leave our woodlands, they are statistically entering the most dangerous part of the course. The drive home.
Long journey times, potentially hazardous weather and other road users can turn a trip into a disaster. This danger can be vastly increased during the winter months we are now entering. With shorter daylight hours, drops in temperature and the possibility of ice and snow on our roads.
Think of your car as an extension of yourself. When you face the elements, you layer to protect yourself and prepare for the cold. Your vehicle needs the same consideration.
The Battery
Cold weather dramatically reduces the battery's efficiency. It might perform perfectly well in milder temperatures but can struggle to deliver the power the car needs to start when the mercury dips. This can be the most common cause for winter breakdowns. I carry a portable jump-start charger and spare jump cables for this very reason.
Fuel
Keep your tank at least half full (I know this can be easier said than done in the current economic climate!). But if you become stuck in traffic or stranded in severe weather, you'll need to keep your heating running to keep yourself safe. Always make sure your exhaust is clear and free of snow if you are sat stationary with your engine running. If it is blocked or obstructed, you can cause exhaust fumes to fill the car, which is extremely dangerous.
Fluids
Engine oil thickens in the cold, making it harder for your engine to circulate and work properly. Antifreeze is there, as the name suggests, to stop the engine's cooling system from freezing and potentially breaking expensive components. Screen wash is often overlooked, but is incredibly important to keep your visibility clear when driving in winter. It's also worth inspecting your wiper blades for tears and cracks. Checking and maintaining proper fluid levels can be a very important habit to get into.
Tyres
The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6 mm in the UK. It's recommended during winter driving to have at least 3 mm for optimal grip as your stopping distance is vastly increased. Also, make sure your tyre pressure is at the correct level as this can drop in the cold weather.
Lights
Winter brings short daylight hours and poor visibility. Regularly clean your headlights and check bulbs, including indicators and brake lights.
Screen
Fully defrost and clear before you set off. The number of drivers I have seen who have only cleared small patches of snow from their windscreen is terrifying. Pay attention to snow on your roof too. Clear this off so it doesn't slide down onto your windscreen while braking.
Emergency breakdown kit
Even with the best preparation, emergencies and accidents can still happen. Having a dedicated kit or bag in your car can be the difference between a serious situation and a minor inconvenience.
I drive a Nissan Navara, so I have the advantage of a lot of space to put my kit in. It has grown and evolved over the years and may even be the source of another blog in the future. But for now, here is a list of recommended items to pack for driving, especially during the cold winter months.
- Blankets or sleeping bags. Or even thermal emergency foil blankets if space is an issue.
- Extra coats and layers with hats and gloves.
- First aid kit for minor injuries.
- Torch and spare batteries – I have a head torch to keep my hands free.
- Shovel – a collapsible one is ideal for digging out of snow.
- Tow rope – comes in handy for being pulled out of the snow.
- Jump leads and/or portable power bank – can also be used for charging phones too, so you can contact emergency services or use GPS navigation.
- De-icer and ice scraper – if you can see, you can't drive safely.
- Food – non-perishable energy bars and fruit and nut snacks are great to store in your car, as keeping your calories up and your stomach full is a great way to fend off the misery of waiting for a recovery truck.
- Warning triangle and high-visibility wear – to place behind your vehicle if you are broken down. And a highly reflective vest or jacket to make yourself seen by other road users.
Driving in the winter demands respect and preparation. By putting a little time and effort into maintaining your vehicle and stocking your emergency kit, you're not just preparing your car; you're protecting yourself and your loved ones. Drive safely, don't speed, stay vigilant and embrace the beauty of the British winter with confidence.