Please take extra care on cold mornings

After a warm December the UK is now facing a fairly cold January. The Met office has warned of temperatures plummeting and showers of snow are to hit the UK during the coming days.

With the colder weather comes the dreaded need to defrost the windscreen on your vehicle before you can set about your day so we have created some handy tips which can help you start your day a smoother way.

DO NOT leave your vehicle unattended while the engine is running as you become an easy target to vehicle thieves.  If you need to leave your vehicle we advise it is best you turn the engine off and lock the vehicle.

DO NOT drive your vehicle until the windscreen is completely defrosted and you have full visibility out of the windows.

DO NOT pour boiled/hot water to your vehicles windscreen as the dramatic change in temperature can cause the glass to crack.

DO NOT use newspaper or any other paper to cover your windscreen over night as this can become stuck to the glass.

DO make sure you have a bottle of de-icer or windscreen wash that contains de-icer and a scraper which is the main recommended way to remove unwanted frost.

DO use the air conditioning in the vehicle as this will stop the glass becoming misty

DO use the heating to gently heat and circulate the air conditioning which will help to melt the frost

DO use a lint-free or soft absorbent cloth to wipe misted windows – we advised you refrain from using your hands or rough cloths as it may result in the glass becoming scratched

DO try to plan ahead – allow yourself an extra 20-30 minutes before your journey to defrost/ice your vehicle – invest in a windscreen shield to place on the vehicle while not in use.