Some things to note and remember when driving in bad weather

Temperatures are dropping and heavy snow fall and ice is forecast.
Driving in these conditions can be unsettling and dangerous. Preparation is key to staying safe.
Black ice can cause skidding, low sunlight reflects off the snow dazzling drivers and radiators can freeze.
With that in mind, here’s some tips from Carzone to stay safe.
Driving in snow
Only drive when it’s necessary!
* Stick to the main roads which are safer and more likely to be gritted.
* Get a full tank of fuel: Then if you do happen to get stranded you can keep the engine running to keep warm.
* Bring a bag of supplies: Be prepared. Bring food, water, warm clothes, a blanket, torch, first aid kit, fully charged mobile phone, jump leads, shovel, ice scraper, de-icing fluid and grit/sand/cat litter (for traction if you get stuck).
* Make sure your car is fit to travel: Check basic items, like all fluids are topped up and tyres aren’t worn out.
* Clear the entire windscreen with de-icer fluid or scraper, not just a peephole: Make sure the window wipers aren’t stuck to the window. Also clear the side and rear mirrors, front and back lights, door mirrors and number plate.
* Clear any snow off the roof of car: This can slide down while driving and block your view again.
* Steer, accelerate and brake smoothly: Abrupt changes and manoeuvres can result in loss of grip and control.
* Listen to the surface: If the sudden crunch of driving on snow stops, you may be on ice.
* If you skid: Don’t break, this may prolong the skid. Take your foot off the accelerator. If you begin to spin, steer the car in the direction the rear of your car is sliding. Don’t overcorrect, or you’ll need to turn in the opposite direction.
Rain and flooding
* Go slow: Speed is a serious factor in wet conditions. Speed limits are for normal road conditions.
* Manoeuvre lightly: Abrupt manoeuvres will unbalance the car, so steer, brake and turn lightly.
* Don’t use cruise control.
* Use the middle lane: A few inches of water can cause engine damage or aquaplaning. Roads usually slope to the sides so puddles can form there.
* Don’t open the bonnet if you breakdown: Don’t open the bonnet in the rain while you wait for roadside assistance. Wet conditions can soak the electrics, making it more difficult to start the engine.
* Check the depth: Don’t attempt to go through more than 6” of standing water or 4” of moving water. Watch other traffic attempt the flooded area if needs be.
* Drive slowly and steadily: Crawl through the water very slowly in first gear. Try to stay on the crown of the road and keep the revs up. Once through, let oncoming traffic pass you and then test the brakes.