Car advice as winter draws in

FIREFIGHTERS urge motorists to prepare for the winter weather.

With darker nights and colder weather arriving, Cheshire Fire And Rescue Service is urging motorists to ensure their vehicles are winter ready.

To help motorists prepare, firefighters will be carrying out free safety checks are part of their campaign for safer roads in Cheshire.

Frances Egerton, one of the CFRS’s road safety officers, said: “It’s important to be prepared in case bad weather strikes.

“Engaging with drivers across Cheshire to advise them on safer driving in wintry conditions is an important part of our road safety campaigning and our drive to reduce the number of road traffic collisions.

“I’m hoping that people will take the time to have their cars checked by our crews and take away some helpful information.”

Firefighters will be checking tyres for bulges or defects, as well as the tyre depth.

They will also show drivers how to check their oil and water levels.

Frances added: “As well as attending one of our events, there are a number of simple steps that all motorists can take to help ensure that their vehicles are ready for the winter weather, including:

Examining tyres – they should be in good condition, have plenty of tread and be set at the correct pressure.

Checking wipers and ensuring that all lights are working.

Keeping screenwash reservoirs as full as possible and using the correct additives.

Ensuring that car windows and mirrors are clean – it is always handy to keep a cloth in the car.

Checking the level of oil.

Adding anti-freeze to the radiator and winter additive to windscreen washer bottles.

She added: “Once the winter weather arrives it’s also advisable to keep a winter weather pack in your car, just in case. This should include a mobile phone charger, some warm clothing, screen de-icer, a torch, a drink and some food – that way you’ve always got everything you need should the worst happen.”