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GREATER Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) is warning drivers to take extra care on the roads as temperatures plummet and driving conditions turn more treacherous.

Firefighters from GMFRS rescue more people each year from road traffic collisions (RTCs) than from fires, and last year 255 RTCs happened in Greater Manchester between November 1, 2010 and February 28, 2011 when the country experienced wintry conditions.

Accidents can happen to anyone, but you can reduce your chances of a collision this winter by following our simple advice;

• Always stay below the speed limit and slow down in bad weather conditions
• Drive more carefully in dangerous road conditions such as snow, heavy rain, ice or fog by slowing down, leaving room for the vehicle in front and switching on your headlights if necessary
• Concentrate and drive considerately at all times
• Always wear a seatbelt and make sure all your passengers do
• Never use your mobile phone when driving - it can distract you and it's illegal
• Never drive if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs - this includes the morning after
• Keep your distance from the vehicle in front - at least a two second gap
• Other road users will make mistakes so be prepared and expect to encounter different road users such as cyclists, heavy goods vehicles and motorcyclists
• Keep your vehicle safe and road worthy at all times

Only get in your car if absolutely essential and be prepared for every eventuality.

Before each journey in severe weather clear any snow and ice from all windows, lights and number plates.

Make sure you can see clearly and be seen and clear snow from the roof of the car.

Make sure your mobile phone is fully charged - but don't use it while driving.

Take some food and a warm drink in a flask in case you get stuck and don't forget to take any personal medication.

It's worth making these checks regularly - and particularly before a long winter journey:

• Check and replace the anti-freeze in the radiator 
• Make sure your lights are clean and check the bulbs  
• Ensure your windscreen is clean 
• Replace the battery if it's not reliable
• Ensure your tyres are correctly inflated and replace them before the tread has reached the legal minimum
• Put an emergency kit in the boot including: ice scraper and de-icer; torch and spare batteries; warm clothes and blankets for you and all passengers; first aid kit; jump leads; a shovel; road atlas; and sunglasses (the glare off snow can be dazzling).

For more advice and up to date travel information visit the Highways Agency Website:  http://www.highways.gov.uk/knowledge/333.aspx

For detailed information on local and national weather conditions, visit the Met Office website at www.metoffice.gov.uk or listen to local radio broadcasts.

Last update: 19/12/2011 15:59:51