Slow Down – carrentals.co.uk would advise tripling the distance you usually leave between your car and the one ahead.

Buckle Up - It is the law in most countries, but do remember to always wear your seatbelt in the front - and in the back if you have them - of the car

Light Up - Keep your headlights on dipped and be seen. Be careful using fog lights or full beam in heavy snow, as they will create glare.

Snow Chains - Book your snow chains when you book your hire car to ensure you’re covered. It’s also worth practising putting them on and taking them off during the day, rather than waiting until you may need them at night.

Top Gears - Reduce the risk of sliding and wheel spin, particularly when pulling away or going uphill, by putting the car into a higher gear than you would for normal dry conditions. For example, pulling away in 2 nd gear can help on ice or packed snow.

Smooth Cornering - On corners slow down well before you normally would and ensure your speed is low enough to ensure you don’t lose traction. You should also avoid any sharp steering movements that may cause the car to slide.

Anticipate Braking – The best way to avoid a skid is to anticipate braking – any sudden, unplanned braking will make the car skid on snow or ice. To brake, gradually alternate engine braking with pedal braking to avoid the locking of wheels. If the wheels lock when you brake and the car starts to slide release the brake pedal to help recover traction, then brake again slowly while also braking with the engine.

Car Essentials - In bad conditions always consider if your journey is essential, but if you do need to travel, try to make sure you have a blanket, torch, mobile phone, shovel and some chocolate and a hot drink in the car.

Skid recovery – If your car starts to skid don’t go for the brakes. Take your foot off the accelerator and steer into the direction of the skid until the car is under control – again make sure you steer with smooth, not abrupt, movements.

Snow Go – If your car gets stuck in snow don’t continue spinning your wheels – it will just be harder to get out of the rut. Spread sand or salt around the wheels to give them grip – or remove snow from around the wheels to create a clear run onto the road.