MET EIREANN is asking road users to prepare for hazardous conditions on roads and footpaths after issuing a weather advisory for wintry hazards including frost and ice and the potential for sleet, snow and hail throughout the week.
The Clare Echo has teamed up with Martin Daly Motors to give you some advice on how to properly prepare for the wintery weather ahead.
Pedestrians are advised:
- Wear appropriate footwear. Each winter, slips and fall accidents cause serious injuries. Even when surfaces do not look especially icy or slippery, it is very possible that a thin sheet of transparent ice or “Black Ice” is covering your pathway putting you at risk.
- Walk on the footpath, not in the street. Visibility can be low in icy weather, make sure to stay on the footpath to avod any unnecessary accidents. If there are no footpaths, walk on the right-hand side of the road, facing traffic.
- Do not underestimate the danger of snow and ice. Many slips and falls happen in places people regard as safe and secure, typically outside their front door, on the door step, on the path or while getting out of the car. When you approach a footpath or roadway that appears to be covered with snow or ice, always use extreme caution.
- Be Safe. Be Seen. Visibility and light are reduced in poor weather conditions. Keep safe by making sure you can be seen. Wear bright clothing and consider wearing high visibility material.
Drivers are advised to:
- Clear windows and mirrors before you set out. Use a screen scraper and de-icer. Do not use hot water on the windscreen as it can crack the glass.
- Remember it takes longer to stop in icy conditions. Slow down, use all controls delicately and leave extra distance between you and the vehicle in front. Avoid over steering and harsh braking and harsh acceleration. Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin. Select a low gear when travelling downhill especially if through bends.
- Do not drive on the tail-lights of the vehicle in front. In icy conditions, visibility will be reduced. Use dipped headlights at all times, and fog lights in heavy snow to ensure you are seen by other motorists (but don’t forget to turn them off afterwards).
- Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, people who cycle and ride motorcycles and allow extra space.
- Check tyres and replace them if the tread depth falls below 3mm. Check they’re inflated to the correct tyre pressure.
Make sure you are prepared for the sudden drop in temperatures, drop into Martin Daly Motors to get your vehicle serviced and ready for the icy roads.
