A snow and ice warning has been issued for Dublin and the rest of the country this week, with dangerous Arctic air expected to make our roads treacherous.
Temperatures will drop to around -5C in the capital on Thursday, with frost and ice expected to gather on the ground - and Met Eireann is also predicting that snow is inbound. But you can avoid accidents by driving safe, and the Road Safety Authority of Ireland (RSA) has issued a number of tips to keep motorists safe during the cold snap.
The RSA is urging motorists to get start getting ready for severe conditions from tonight as temperatures are set to drop overnight. A spokesman from the RSA said: "The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is advising all road users to prepare for hazardous conditions on roads and footpaths as Met Eireann has issued a warning for low temperatures and ice.
Read more: Map shows exact day and time snow will hit Dublin as Met Eireann issues weather warnings
"This will include low single figures by day and sharp or severe frosts and icy patches at night from Wednesday and into the weekend for all of Ireland. There is also a risk of hailstones and snow in some parts of the country."
The RSA are also warning road users about the dangers of black ice, which can be difficult to see. Sheltered areas of the road, under trees and adjacent to high walls are most likely to see black ice. Here's more helpful tips from the RSA to keep you and other road users safe.
Make sure you can see
For any motorist, being able to see the road and other road users is very important and due to the cold weather, ice and snow can build up on your vehicle's windows. Clear your windows and mirrors of any ice before you set off, and also carry a screen scraper and de-icer.
Make sure your windshield washer system works and is full of an anti-icing fluid. Remember that heavy snowfall will reduce visibility, and watch out for grit/salt spreaders and snow ploughs. The glare from the sun can be dazzling in the winter when the sun is low in the sky, so wear sunglasses in these conditions.
Watch out for "black ice"
If the road looks polished or glossy it could be, "black ice” one of winter's worst hazards: Black Ice is difficult to see! It is nearly transparent ice that often looks like a harmless puddle or is overlooked entirely. Watch out for black ice, especially in sheltered / shaded areas on roads, under trees and adjacent to high walls.
Keep a safe distance
Remember it takes longer to stop in icy conditions. Manoeuvre gently, slow down and increase your braking distance or ‘safe space’ by leaving an extra distance between you and the vehicle in front.
It's also best to avoid harsh steering, braking and acceleration because in icy or snow conditions this could cause your vehicle to skid. Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin, and for travelling downhill or going around bends move into a lower gear and
Check and use your lights
Use your dipped headlights so that others will see you, especially during the early mornings and late evenings. Make sure your headlights and taillights are all in working order, and replace broken bulbs as soon as possible. Make sure lights are clear of snow.
Check your tyres
Check tyres and replace them if the tread depth falls below 3mm. It's also important to check they’re inflated to the correct tyre pressure.
Travel checklist for your vehicle
Before you start out on a journey, it's a good idea to do a checklist to make sure that things run smoothly. This may include checking:
- The vehicle is properly maintained, serviced and engine oil viscosity is suitable for cold conditions
- Have the strength of coolant/antifreeze measured.
- Ensure vehicle has adequate supply of fuel for journey.
- Consider carrying some salt or sand.
How does your vehicle help?
Familiarise yourself with the owner's manual of your vehicle and check for any safety assist technology like Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) in your vehicle.
Be vigilant of other road users
Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists and allow extra space when overtaking them. While walking on footpaths and in public places, or entering and exiting your car or truck, don't underestimate the dangers of frost and ice.
Slips and falls on icy surfaces can cause serious injury, so even if a surface doesn't look icy it may have black ice. Motorists should take care when exiting their vehicle and watch out for ice. If you are out walking in icy conditions wear appropriate footwear.
Get informed
During a cold snap, it's recommended that all road users listen and check out local weather and traffic reports. The RSA also has prepared a helpful guide ‘Severe Weather Advice for Road Users’ which you can download from the RSA’s website. It has lots more useful advice on dealing with the difficult road conditions
Be prepared
In prolonged icy or snowy driving conditions it is advisable to carry the following in the boot of the car:
- High Visibility Vest
- Tow rope
- Spare bulbs
- Spare fuel
- A shovel
- Appropriate footwear in case you have to leave your vehicle ie boots
- A hazard warning triangle
- Spare wheel (with tyre at correct pressure and tread)
- Check that your spare wheel is in good condition and is fully inflated. Some cars may have an inflation repair kit instead of a spare wheel. Make sure that you know how to use it.
- De-icing equipment (Both for glass and door locks)
- First aid kit (in good order)
- A fire extinguisher (fully operative)
- A working torch
- A car blanket, additional clothing & some food and water
For advice on severe weather driving tips and weather updates, please see severe weather advice on or check out the RSA Facebook and Twitter pages.
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