Fife Constabulary will be running several ‘car clinics aimed’ at preparing drivers for winter.
Road safety police will be on hand to answer questions and provide advice to drivers about how to stay safe as roads turn icy.
The clinics will give advice and information on the difficulties encountered with reduced daylight hours, poorer visibility as a result of a low sun and adverse weather conditions.
Road Policing Sergeant Derek Allan, said: “The clinics will take policing closer to the community in an effort to enhance driver awareness about the increased hazards faced during the winter months and ensure that vehicles are free from defects particularly their tyres, brakes, and lights. Now is the time to ensure that you carry useful items should you break down or be held up in bad weather conditions.”
During the weekend of 28th – 30th October, car clinics will be held between 11am and 3pm at the following locations:
- Friday 28th October – Tesco, Cupar
- Saturday 29th October – Sainsbury, Fife Retail Park, Kirkcaldy
- Sunday 30th October – Asda, Halbeath Rd, Dunfermline
They say mobile phones should be kept charged in case of emergencies, and the following items should be stored in cars:
- Ice scraper and de-icer
- Torch and spare batteries
- Warm clothes and a blanket
- Boots
- First aid kit
- Jump leads
- Some food and drink
- A shovel
- Reflective warning sign
- Sunglasses – low winter sun can be dazzling
- A map for any unplanned diversions
Sgt Allan added: “We will be telling drivers that good visibility is essential by keeping windscreens and windows clear of condensation, ice and dirt. Drivers and motorcyclists will be encouraged to drive at an appropriate speed for the road and weather conditions. They will also be encouraged to carry out daily safety checks and to incorporate these as normal practice prior to driving.
“This year everyone across Scotland is being encouraged to get ready for winter. Getting ready for winter is something we all need to do – it takes only a few simple steps.
“Last year’s severe weather caught many people out. How prepared are you should it happen again this winter?”
