Pack warm clothes and allow extra time - that's some of the advice being issued to motorists by the Highways Agency (HA) in advance of anticipated cold weather conditions that are heading our way, wired-gov.uk reports.
Those who plan to hire cars in the UK over the next few days will need to take extra care, if the weather forecasts prove accurate. Latest predictions by the Met Office are of widespread frosts and snow in some areas.
An alert has been issued across the country, with temperatures expected to plummet as low as minus three degrees in London and Birmingham. It is highly likely that there will be ice on the roads and as a consequence, the HA is dispensing invaluable advice, pertinent especially to those who do not drive regularly.
"Although you are unlikely to need a snow shovel this week, you should make sure you have plenty of warm clothing for you and your passengers. If you break down on the motorway it's dangerous to stay in your vehicle," said Jason Glassman of the HA's winter team.
Further suggestions, cited by Fresh Business Thinking include allowing extra time in the morning to let the windscreens completely thaw, clearing all windows before setting off and bringing sunglasses to prevent being dazzled by the low sun.
Whether or not it's been raining, the HA warns, the roads could still be treacherous due to frost and although their fleet of 500 gritting vehicles will be out in force, preparing the roads, care must still be taken.