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Winter tyres could help drivers during cold snap

Published: 30 January 2012

Fitting winter tyres to their vehicles could help drivers keep safe during a cold snap.

Winter tyres are better able to operate safely in snowy and icy conditions than standard summer tyres, which do not perform as well once the temperature drops below seven degrees Celsius.

This is because, unlike standard tyres, they do not harden at low temperatures and therefore make for better grip and shorter stopping distances.

Many areas in the UK are currently experiencing icy conditions, and the Met Office has warned people to expect severe weather over the coming week, with  temperatures set to fall as low as minus ten degrees Celsius.

The office has issued an amber warning for parts of Wales, while the hilly areas of the east and south-east could get as much as ten centimetres of snow.

It looks likely to be the longest spell of cold weather in months, following one of the mildest winters on record.

During severe weather warnings, motorists should try to avoid all non-essential journeys.

If it is absolutely necessary that they travel, they should be sure to carry emergency supplies including food, clothing and blankets.