The Highways Agency has urged road users to make time for winter and ensure they are ready for severe weather.

"The Highways Agency is ready for winter, but the experience of recent winters is that we must all play our part and be prepared," warned Roads Minister Mike Penning. "A few very simple steps taken now, such as putting together a severe weather emergency kit for your car, can reduce the risk of being caught out by the weather."

“Not every journey is essential in severe weather, but if you really must travel in the worst conditions, check your vehicle before you set out; take a severe weather emergency kit; check traffic and weather conditions and always plan your journey," he said.

The Highways Agency, which is responsible for England’s motorways and other strategic roads,  is well prepared for winter, with a fleet of 500 state of the art winter vehicles on stand-by, supported by tried and tested winter resilience plans. The Agency has reviewed salt stock levels, and started this winter period with stocks of more than a quarter of a million tonnes – 25% more than at the same time last year.

It advises that a severe weather emergency kit should include the following items – an ice scraper and de-icer, a torch, warm clothes and a blanket, a pair of boots, a first-aid kit, battery jump leads, a spade if it’s likely to snow, food and drink.

Further advice and tips