Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) is calling on motorists to be prepared for winter after revealing its crews get called to more road incidents than house fires.
In a press release issued yesterday (9 Nov) HWFRS says road safety is a key element of its winter safety campaign.
This week has seen snow fall in some parts of the UK, with temperatures plunging to minus 5C in central England on Monday night.
Advice given to motorists by HWFRS relates to the importance of proper servicing and tyre tread depth, keeping a safe distance from the vehicle in front and clearing ice and snow off windows, mirrors, lights and roof – even for short journeys.
HWFRS is also advising drivers to have sufficient fuel and screen-wash to cope with any delays or diversions, to check local news/travel advice when colder weather/icy conditions are forecast and prepare an ’emergency kit’ for the car in case of breakdown.
Station commander Stuart Crebbin, community risk department, said: "Our crews get called to more road incidents than we do house fires each year, and so promoting safe driving is a key part of our work.
"There are several factors to consider at this time of year – shorter daylight hours, the impact of the clocks moving back an hour and the forecast of colder and wetter weather – and each of these brings increased risks to road users."
The RAC has also warned motorists to drive cautiously during adverse conditions and to be prepared for sudden changes of weather and road conditions.
Speaking earlier this week, Rod Dennis, RAC spokesman, said: “Drivers are about to get their first taste of winter – so it makes sense to get prepared now to lessen the risk of breaking down in what are going to be cold, difficult conditions.
“Check coolant and screenwash levels, and if you’re topping up the latter make sure you use the right concentration to protect your vehicle against freezing conditions.”
Photo: Highways England) via Flickr
What is “revealing” about fire crews getting called to more road incidents than house fires? I thought these days that it was normal for most fire services to be busier dealing with road traffic collisions and trying to prevent them through road safety education than dealing with fires and fire prevention. Carry on with the winter driving campaign though.
Pat, Wales
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