Wiltshire Police are advising motorists only to make essential journeys following the overnight snow fall with even more snow forecasted for today.
Some roads in and around Swindon are difficult to use and people are being asked not to travel unless it’s absolutely essential and even then try and wait until roads have been gritted later today.
Superintendent Conway Duncan said: “The snow has currently hit the north of the county – it appears to be north of Lyneham where the worst has fallen, however, we are expecting more to fall in the north and centrally later today.
“We are working closely with our partner agencies to ensure that there are sufficient resources but our best advice is to avoid any unnecessary journeys if at all possible.
“We are seeing a number of collisions at junctions in particular where people are trying to stop as if the conditions are dry. My advice is, when the roads are wet and icy, it can take twice as long to stop your vehicle so slow down and plan well ahead of a junction so you start slowing down well before you get to the junction; please remember your vehicle will take much longer to stop in these conditions.
“If you have to travel there are measures that all road users can take to help reduce any risks.”
Advice for road users:
- Keep up-to-date with the weather forecast and road conditions before you set off on your journey
Check that your vehicle is roadworthy - Make sure you have full visibility before driving, taking time to de-mist and de-ice all windows
Use your lights - Keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front
- In poor visibility be extra alert for hazards
- Carry warm waterproof clothing, a sleeping bag, food, water and a torch in your vehicle, in case weather conditions mean you have to stop
- Make sure you have plenty of fuel for your journey before you set off
- Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin. Manoeuvre gently and avoid harsh braking and acceleration. If you start to skid, gently ease off the accelerator and avoid braking. If braking is necessary, pump the brakes, don’t slam them on.
- Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged
- Poor weather conditions mean it can be harder for drivers to see pedestrians and cyclists, so be vigilant and make sure you can be seen however you are traveling and wear high visibility clothing.
Perhaps they should get the gritter out