Met Office Urges Drivers To Keep12Items In Their Car This Winter

The Met Office has warned that this means some roads may be affected by poor weather conditions.

Therefore, they advise people in affected areas to leave their homes (whether on foot, by bicycle, or by car) five minutes earlier than usual. This can help prevent accidents caused by speeding on slippery ground.

But no matter where you are in the UK, the Met Office recommends keeping 12 things in your car this winter.

In collaboration with experts from the RAC, they have identified these:

1) Snow blower and ice scraper

It's legally mandatory to remove snow and ice from your windscreen and rear window before setting off on a journey, so keeping a snow blower and ice scraper in your car during winter is essential.

2) A physical map

Cold weather can drain your car's battery, which means any map programs in the car will also shut down, and you don't want to rely on your phone's battery in an emergency.

In such circumstances, and if you suddenly lose your way in cold weather, a paper map can be useful.

3) Battery-powered or wind-up flashlight

Cold weather has a devastating effect on your car's battery. The Meteorological Department and the RAC have warned that if you get stuck in a dark area, your phone's screen will be useless.

He further added, "A large flashlight with extra batteries or a wind-up flashlight without batteries is essential for your vehicle."

4) Warm clothes and blankets

These are essential in case your car breaks down in cold areas. Gloves, hats, and scarves are also good options.

5) Clothing with good visibility

If your car breaks down on the side of a dark road, visibility is crucial. A reflective and fluorescent jacket can help other drivers easily identify you.

6) Phone charger in the car

This, or a portable power bank, can keep you connected in an emergency.

7) Jump Leads

Again, cold weather means your car battery is more likely to die. In such cases, jump leads can get you back on the road.

8) Snacks and Beverages

If you have to wait a long time for help in the cold, you should be comfortable in your car. According to the weather service, a flask of hot tea, as well as long-lasting snacks and water, are good in such cases.

9) Sunglasses

You may associate sunglasses with warmer months, but winter actually has much less light, which can impair drivers' vision.

Also, glare means it's a good idea to protect your eyes when driving in winter.

10) Shovel

If it's snowing heavily and rapidly near you, a shovel can be useful—especially on smaller roads where snow is less likely to fall.

11) Warning Triangle

Like your high-visibility jacket, this is essential so other drivers can see you if your vehicle breaks down.

If you're stopping suddenly, keep it at least 45 meters away from both the front and back of your vehicle, as this is the best way to make yourself visible.

12) Empty Petrol Can

If you can't get to a petrol pump for some reason, it's always helpful to have a petrol can nearby, according to the Meteorological Department.