Rsa issues advice for driving in freezing fog

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is warning road users of the dangers posed by freezing fog, which has been forecast for many parts of the country over the coming days.

The RSA has issued the following advice:

* Check local and national weather forecasts before setting out on a journey. Clear your windows and mirrors before you set out, carry a screen scraper and de-icer. Do not use hot water on the windscreen as it can crack the glass.
* In patches of fog, switch on fog lamps where visibility is reduced. As you enter fog, check your mirrors and slow down. Use your foot brake lightly so that your lights warn following drivers.
* To prevent windscreen wipers from freezing and seizing up in freezing fog, add anti-freeze screen washer to the water tank. Check the wipers for wear and tear and replace them if necessary.
* Do not drive on the tail lights of the vehicle in front. This can give a false sense of security and you will be too close to brake safely. In heavy fog, turn off your radio and let down your driver’s window a fraction, so you can hear other traffic.
* Remember to switch off your fog lights once the foggy conditions improve.
* Watch out for ‘black ice’. Black ice is nearly transparent ice, that often looks like a harmless puddle or is overlooked entirely. It can occur especially in sheltered/shaded areas on roads, under trees and adjacent to high walls.
* In icy conditions manoeuvre gently, slow down and leave extra distance between you and the vehicle in front. Too much steering is bad, and avoid harsh braking and acceleration. Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin. Select a low gear when travelling downhill, especially through bends.
* Use your dipped headlights so that others will see you. Make sure your headlights and tail lights are all in working order and replace broken bulbs.
* Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, and allow extra space.
* Check tyres, including spare wheel, replace them if the tread depth falls below 3mm, and make sure they are inflated to the correct tyre pressure. Lack of grip can occur even on treated roads, so drive slowly in the highest gear possible, manoeuvre gently and avoid harsh braking.

Pedestrians and cyclists are advised to:

* Avoid going out in fog unless it is a necessity. If walking or cycling in fog, make sure you are clearly visible by carrying a torch and wearing reflective clothing. Stay well in off the road where there is no footpath and vehicles are approaching.
* While walking on footpaths and in public places, or entering and exiting your vehicle, Do not underestimate the danger of ice.
* Many slips and falls happen in places people regard as safe and secure, typically outside their front door, on the door step, on the path or while getting out of the car. It is very possible that a thin sheet of transparent ice is covering your pathway, putting you at risk. When you approach a footpath or roadway that appears to be covered with ice, always use extreme caution.

Visit the RSA’s website for more severe weather advice for road users. Visit your local authority website to view the road gritting plan for each county and the roads being treated in your area.