Snow safety

Tips

Snow safety

Tips

Driving in the snow

If it has snowed, be extra cautious when you go outside.

Before you leave

  • Clear your windows and doors of ice using a windscreen scraper or de-icing spray.
  • If your car door is frozen shut, give it a push to break the ice.
  • If your hand brake cable is frozen, allow the motor to run for 15 minutes to allow the cable to defrost. You can avoid this problem by not engaging your hand brake but instead putting your car in gear when you park.

On the road

  • Give yourself extra time to reach your destination and use motorways and roads which have been salted. You can see which roads are salted by visiting www.wegenenverkeer.be.
  • Always maintain constant speed when driving and gear down instead of braking whenever possible.
  • Remember that braking distances are much longer when roads are slippery, so be sure to keep your distance from the car in front.
  • If your car starts to skid, don't brake or jerk the steering wheel. Instead, release the gas pedal, depress the clutch and gently steer in the direction you want to go rather than focusing on the obstacle. Once you have regained control of your car, gently release the clutch.

Avoiding snow damage at home

  • Remove snow from flat roofs and verandas to avoid the roof collapsing under the weight.
  • Keep your pavement free of snow to avoid being held liable if an accident occurs.

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