Drive safe this winter – use FLOWER power

Drivers are being urged to think FLOWER this winter to keep them and others safe on the road.

Motoring experts are encouraging them to ensure that their vehicle is road worthy and that they carry a winter driving kit in case of an emergency. In some cases, they should make alternative travel arrangements or even cancel their planned journey if the weather is severe.

Jan Brabin, Bury Council’s senior road safety officer, advised drivers to carry an emergency kit with them, containing warm clothing, a torch, an ice scraper, battery jump leads, a first aid kit, food, a warm drink and a shovel.

“You should also carry sunglasses to reduce the glare from the sun, and a mobile phone – but remember, it is illegal to use a handheld mobile phone while driving.”

Officers advise checking the car before a journey by ensure that tyres are at the correct pressure and have the legal minimum depth of tread (1.6mm); make sure that the lights and wipers are working; keep lights clean as they can get dirty from spray.

For more regular car maintenance checks remember the word 'flower'.

F is for fuel. L is for lights. O is for oil. W is for water. E is for electrics. R is for rubber.

“Drivers should also adapt to the conditions,” said Jan. “Wet and icy roads can have a significant impact on a vehicle’s stopping distance, so slow down and drive carefully even on roads that have been treated.

“In extreme weather it may be necessary to close roads to traffic using ‘road closed’ signs and cones. Drivers should be aware that this is done for good reason and on safety grounds. It is an offence to remove signs and cones, and drivers’ insurance can be invalidated if they travel down a closed road. The main concern is Rawson’s Rake in Ramsbottom, which due to the gradient can become impassable in severe weather.”

ENDS

Press release issued: 15 November 2016.