Winter Safety Advice

Cold winter weather can create hazards. Here is some useful advice to help you stay safe.

Snowballs

Throwing snowballs at passing cars is extremely dangerous. Apart from the damage that could be caused to vehicles, there is a danger that a driver or passenger could be injured. There is also the potential that a snowball striking a car, bus or lorry could cause the driver to lose control and collide.

Police have also received reports that gritters, salt lorries and emergency vehicles have been pelted by snowballs, some to the extent that they could not carry out their essential and much needed duties. This is dangerous and results in the entire community suffering and losing out on vital services.

We would ask you to support us and report such incidents straightaway by calling police on 0845 600 8000.

Frozen rivers, ponds and lakes

Police cannot stress strongly enough the dangers of taking scooters and other vehicles on to frozen rivers, ponds and lakes. While the ice may seem sturdy and able to support weight it can become very thin very quickly. The surface can easily crack, give way and individuals can fall through. The consequences could be fatal.

If you see someone, or a pet, fall through the ice and get into difficulty never try to rescue them yourself. Instead phone 999 immediately.

Winter driving

Motorists need to pay due care and attention on the roads in the winter and be able to adapt to changing conditions. Even the most experienced drivers can find themselves getting into difficulties when the roads are icy.

Ask yourself whether your journey is really necessary.

Before you set off on your journey:

Make sure your vehicle is in winter roadworthy condition.
Check that your tyres meet the legal requirements. Tyres that do not have the legal tread will seriously affect your car’s traction and steering.
Clear your windscreen properly of ice and snow.
Check brakes, lights, and oil and washer fluid levels.
Carry water and de-icer in the car with you.
If you are going on a longer journey, make sure you bring food, hot drinks, warm blankets and a fully charged mobile phone.

If you must travel in wintry weather remember to:

Slow down and leave plenty of room to stop. You should allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front.
Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels lock, ease of the brakes.
Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists and always clear all ice and snow off the car windows before setting out.
Drive slowly on snow in the highest gear possible.
Never overtake snowploughs or gritting lorries. The drivers have limited visibility, and you are likely to find that the road in front of them is worse that the road behind.
Do not assume your vehicle can handle all conditions. Even four-wheel drive vehicles can encounter trouble on winter roads.
Carry wellingtons or other strong boots and weatherproof clothing in case your have to get out and walk, or push a car.

If you get stuck in snow:

Do not spin your wheels. This will only dig you in deeper. Turn your wheels from side to side a few times to push snow out of the way.
Use a light touch on the accelerator to ease your car out.
Use a shovel to clear snow away from the wheels and the underside of the car.
Pour sand, gravel or salt in the path of the wheels – or even use your foot mats – to help get traction.
If you must leave your car, arrange to have it recovered as soon as possible. If you think it is in a place that may pose a danger to other road users, call the police to let them know.

You can find out more helpful advice and tips from Belfast City Council