Green Flag has breakdown experts available all weekend for broadcast interviews

• Snow is forecast to affect Central England, Wales and Scotland
• Temperatures to plummet to -4 in places
• 53 per cent increase in breakdown callouts for non-starts and flat batteries
• Drivers warned to take extra care with ice on the roads

Miranda Schunke, spokesperson for Green Flag, comments, “We advise motorists to take extra care as the winter weather looks to set to cause hazardous driving conditions this weekend and into next week. However, if you do have to drive in snow or icy conditions, make sure you allow extra time for your journey, take your time on the roads and ensure you have warm clothing and a mobile phone in case you breakdown or get stuck in the snow.”

“From experience, we know that the number of calls for rescue assistance can double in wintry conditions, so we monitor weather forecasts in advance and draft in extra staff both on the roads and on the phones to handle emergencies. If you haven’t got breakdown cover and you need help, do still give us a call as ‘instant cover’ is always available.”

For those motorists who must use the roads, Green Flag has some top tips for driving in hazardous weather conditions:

• Use the defroster and windshield wipers for better visibility. Ensure the blades are in good condition, with no splits, de-ice the screen completely and ensure the blades are not frozen to the screen before operating. Failure to do so may result in the protective fuse blowing. It is also worth adding an anti-freeze inhibitor to the screen wash fluid container
• Once on the road, check your speed and turn slowly, even if the roads have been gritted
• Give more warning than usual to other drivers when turning, stopping or changing lane
• Keep plenty of distance between cars. You never know when you'll hit an icy spot. If you pass the same landmarks as the car in front of you within three seconds, you are following too closely
• Pump the brakes slowly and gently if your car does not have anti-lock brakes. Constant pressure can cause them to lock and skid
• Be extra wary of black ice - it is an invisible danger that can catch out the most careful driver
• Approach corners at a steady speed, in as low a gear as possible. Don't touch the clutch unless it is absolutely necessary, steer smoothly and avoid braking on the bends
• Check the depth of tread on your tyres as well as the overall condition and pressure which could affect a vehicles' performance in icy conditions. It is also worth investing in Winter Tyres or snow socks.

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