The sub zero temperatures and snow falls which are expected in the next 48 hours, which follow on from the extreme weather conditions experienced over the last few days, will result in roads continuing to be hazardous for both motorists and pedestrians.
Gwent Police is advising people to drive with extreme care over the next few days and to also look out for friends and neighbours.
Superintendent Jon Burley commented:
“While this cold weather continues I would urge people to check on the welfare of family, friends and neighbours, particularly those who are vulnerable or elderly. I would also urge motorists to only travel if absolutely necessary, and to use their common sense.
While we have seen some improvements in the weather the freezing conditions mean that any snow, or water, on the roads will freeze over. Even if roads have been gritted and appear clear of snow and ice they can still be very hazardous.
Motorists should reduce their speed to ensure they drive safely in these conditions. It can take 10 times longer to stop on an icy road than on a dry road, so people need to keep this in mind.
Drivers should leave plenty of room between them and the car in front, drive slower than usual and use their gears to slow down where possible rather than their brakes, pay attention to the road traffic signs on the motorways and listen to local radio stations for regular traffic updates.
Although local authorities will be gritting main routes it is likely that the situation on the roads, particularly side streets, will continue to be very icy over the next few days.
I would like to thank drivers for their continued patience and responsible driving during these extreme weather conditions.
I would also like to remind pedestrians that many footpaths will be very icy and so great care should be taken when out and about.”
If your journey is absolutely necessary please heed the following advice;
- Don’t leave your car running unattended when defrosting it.
- Make sure you have sufficient fuel for your journey. Keep the fuel tank topped up.
- Check weather forecasts. Listen to local and national radio for travel information
- Give yourself extra time for your journey and drive at a constant speed. Accept your journey will take longer and don’t take risks.
- Take a mobile telephone with you and make sure it is fully charged. Carry a mobile charger in the car.
- Poor weather conditions mean it can be harder for drivers to see pedestrians and cyclists, so be vigilant. In poor visibility be extra alert for hazards, and allow extra room to slow down and stop
- Wear comfortable shoes, not thick boots, which can be difficult to drive in. Keep warm clothing and footwear in the car in case you get stuck or need to get out of the car, and carry a thermos flask and high energy snacks such as chocolate so you can have a hot drink and something to eat.
- Make sure all your car lights are working and you have no failed bulbs. Ensure that dirt, salt and snow is cleared away from light fixtures.
- Always ensure all windows are fully cleared of snow, frost and condensation before setting off on a journey. It is illegal to drive with obscured vision.
- Clear snow from the top of the car as this can fall down and obscure your windscreen while you are driving.
- Keep windscreen washer fluid topped up as windscreens quickly become dirty from traffic spray and salt from the roads.
- If you get stuck stay with your car, but in an emergency if do need to leave it, park it out of the main traffic route, where it won’t cause an obstruction when conditions ease. Leave a contact number on the inside of the windscreen and return to your car at the first opportunity you have.
N.B. : Gwent Police have received reports of people walking on frozen water such as rivers and lakes and officers are warning people not to engage in such activity due to the dangers posed.
People are also being urged not to engage in anti-social behaviour such as throwing snowballs at moving vehicles which is a safety risk.
Gwent Police has planned for this type of weather – officers and staff are available to deal with any emergencies. We have extra 4×4 vehicles available, and patrols have been planned according to the conditions.
