Contingency plans are being prepared across by Northamptonshire Police to help respond to anticipated snow-related problems.
The force is warning people to prepare as much as possible after The Met Office issued a weather warning of potentially disruptive snow falls from 9am on Friday
Superintendent Andy Cox said: “At the moment we do not know exactly how much snow fall we are likely to see over the next few days. However, I want people to make sure they are as prepared as possible.
“Make sure you are wrapped up well and if you are driving, make sure you have extra warm clothes in your car, as well as an ice scraper and small spade if possible. Also make sure your mobile phone is fully charged so you are able to call for help, should you need it.
“Always make sure your vehicle is fully defrosted and all windows are clear of snow and ice before you set-off.
“Every year we have cars stolen in Northamptonshire after people have started their vehicle and left it with the keys in the ignition while it warms up.
“This is an open invitation to opportunist criminals so we are asking people to please stay with their vehicle if it is unlocked and don’t offer that temptation.”
The snow is forecast to continue into Friday afternoon. At times it is expected to be heavy and possibly up to 10cm across the East Midlands.
Snow is expected again on Saturday and Sunday but in lesser amounts than Friday.
Drivers are also being reminded to make sure they alter their driving style to the conditions they find themselves in.
Supt Cox said: “If you are driving in snow and icy conditions, make sure you slow down and leave extra braking distance between yourself and the vehicle in front of you. If the conditions are particularly poor please consider if you really need to make your journey.”
Police reminded people to take care around frozen lakes and water.
People are also being urged to check with vulnerable friends and relatives that they are prepared for any heavy snow and have sufficient provisions for the weekend.
For gritting news on local roads visit: www.mgwsp.co.uk
The Highways Agency is responsible for the trunk road network and motorways. Log onto www.highways.gov.uk for more information.
Winter driving tips from Northamptonshire Police;
• If you do have to drive, do so in accordance with the weather conditions;
o Allow extra time for your journey and let someone know the route you will be taking
o Use your headlights and fog lights in thick fog, but remember to turn them off when the weather has cleared
o Slow down – lower you speed in poor visibility or poor road conditions.
o Keep a good distance from the vehicle in front and anticipate what other vehicles might do – they might not be able to stop quickly
o Look out for the tell-tale glistening on road surfaces in icy conditions
o When stopping, brake lightly to avoid skidding
o Don’t make any sudden manoeuvres – drive as smoothly as you can
o If the weather conditions are very poor do not travel unless you really have to
• Be prepared;
o Anti-freeze – add anti-freeze to the radiator of your car. Also, to help keep your windscreen clean, add winter additive to the windscreen wash
o Battery – keep your battery fully charged
o Service – make sure your car has had a service and is well maintained
o Lights – make sure that all lights are working
o Tyres – your tyres should have the correct amount of air in them, and have plenty of tread depth
o Wipers – change the blades on your windscreen wipers if they are worn
o Windows – clear your windows and mirrors so that it is easier to see out. The glare of the low winter sun can make it difficult to see through dirty windscreens
• Create an emergency kit to keep in the back of your car, including;
o Ice scraper and de-icer
o Torch
o Warm clothes and blanket
o Food and drink
o Boots
o First-aid kit
o Battery jump leads
o Small spade
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