Use the POWDERY checklist to ensure you check everything:

PETROL or Diesel – make sure you have enough for your journey and know where to fill up;

OIL– check levels once a month;

WATER – check radiator and screen wash once a month;

DAMAGE – check wiper, lights, etc for signs of wear and tear or damage;

ELECTRICS – check lights, indicators and controls are working properly;

RUBBER – are your tyres well inflated, legal, with good tread and free from damage?

YOURSELF ! – are you well rested and fit to drive? Are you taking any medications that could make it unsafe for you to drive?

Put together a winter emergency kit for your vehicle – you never know when you might need these items:

• Ice scraper and de-icer;
• Torch and spare batteries;
• Warm clothes and blankets – for you and all passengers;
• Boots;
• First aid kit;
• Jump leads;
• A shovel;
• Road atlas (in case your phone or sat nav loses power);
• Sunglasses (low winter sun and glare off snow can be dazzling).

Be informed before you take a journey – check the latest traffic and weather:

• The Highways England website includes the latest traffic reports and maps showing how traffic is flowing on England’s motorways and major A roads. Or keep up to date with the latest on winter driving through the Highways England social media channels @winterhighways ;
• Take weather conditions into account when planning your route. Visit the Met Office website or listen to local radio broadcasts. Conditions can change so check weather updates;
• Always allow extra time in severe weather;
• Listen to warnings or advice and consider whether or not your journey is essential;
• On the move you can still get information by radio broadcasts of overhead messages on motorways.