As a general rule, we don’t experience especially harsh winters in the UK and Ireland (not compared to the Alps at least). However, in light of global warming and climate change it is now quite difficult to be 100% sure of just how mild, or otherwise, a winter will be.
This applies not only for you as a driver or as a fleet manager, but so too for local authorities who are in charge of maintaining roads and attending to safety during the colder season. The authorities are often caught by surprise with the first blasts of cold or snow, and this is an additional reason why you need to be prepared. Obviously, dramatic weather changes not only affect you, but that of your vehicles.
As an employer, you cannot control the road conditions or the weather, but you can certainly invest time and resources into adequate fleet preparation as well as educating fleet drivers about the importance of driving safely in adverse weather conditions.
If you need to prepare your fleet for winter driving you can refer to one of the free eBooks we have created specifically dedicated to this topic and begin your winter safety inspections straight away, especially if you haven’t planned for this already. In our eBook you will find all the tips to avoiding potential hazards; making sure you are not only ready, but that you also achieve the best possible performance from your vehicles while still respecting your safety and that of other road users.
We recommend that you try to use the busiest routes when possible as they are more likely to have been cleared of snow and ice. Exercise caution and respect speed limits, avoiding high revs and excessive use of brakes, which, in adverse, conditions could easily cause your vehicle to lose control.
Pay special attention to:
- tyres - as tyre pressures may decrease with cold temperatures; however less pressure does generally equate to more traction, which is a good thing in icy conditions;
- the battery - test it and make sure it is working fine, since starting in cold temperatures requires more of its power;
- oil - it might be worth changing it to one of less viscosity;
- coolant - make sure you have water and antifreeze;
- wipers - make sure they work fine and allow you maximum visibility;
- winter kit – useful to keep one in your vehicle;
Make sure you are ready: it is difficult enough to drive under normal conditions, so when the weather takes a turn for the worse, don’t get caught out!
