We brave sub-zero temperatures in Iceland… Brit drivers should pack little-known piece of kit for their car this winter
BRITISH drivers have been urged to pack a little-known bit of kit while venturing out in sub-zero temperatures this winter.
From scraping the ice from the windscreen with a CD player to topping up the anti-freeze, Christmas can be a challenging time for drivers across the country.
Now Icelandic driving experts have reminded drivers to pack one rather obscure piece of kit before heading out on the roads.
If a car does break down or get stuck in snow, an emergency warning triangle will alert other road users and prevent the risk of a shunt.
The warning triangle should be placed 147 feet behind the car after it has broken down.
The experts at Lotus also recommended that drivers packed the below items before heading out this winter.
De-icer and ice-scraper
Although most drivers have a de-icer and scraper at home, they often forget to take them with them on winter journeys.
But windscreens can freeze over if the car is parked up or stuck in traffic, when a scraper and de-icer will be needed.
Torch
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You may find yourself in a situation where you have a flat battery, need to conserve energy or leave your vehicle in a remote location. Packing a torch could be vital in these instances to help you see inside your car and inspect the outside.
A physical map
If your GPS or phone goes flat or loses signal, you will need a way to continue navigating your journey. A physical map will help you to arrive at your destination safely.
Phone charger and portable charger
If your car has a USB output, a phone charging cable is essential to stopping your battery from going flat.
It is also a good idea to pack a pre-charged portable phone charger in case your car battery dies to ensure your phone is fully topped up to contact breakdown recovery, family and friends.
Warm clothes and a blanket
There is an increased chance of a breakdown or shunt during the winter months and drivers should take warm clothes and a blanket with them.
The is especially true if the drivers has children or old people with them in the car.
Boots
A sturdy pair of boots will be useful if the car breaks down and you need to get out on a country lane and scrape out the windscreen or event change a tire.
Shovel
It might not be the first item that springs to mind when venturing out but a shovel will come in handy if your car gets stuck in snow.
High-visibility jacket
The so called high-vis jacket or vest is worn by emergency workers and recovery drivers because they reduce the chances of another driver running you over.
The jacket is a potential life-saver if you are required to get out of your car when visibility is poor.
First aid kit
Drivers should really have a first aid kit in the car throughout the year. But in winter when the risk of accidents is higher they are essential.
Water and food
With longer journeys and breakdowns more likely, extra water and snacks can make your time on the road more comfortable. Keep some non-perishables, like nuts, dried fruit, crisps and chocolate bars, in your glove compartment.
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Empty fuel can
Not every breakdown is due to a flat battery, sometimes it is as simple as running out of fuel. An empty fuel can stop you from having to call for help and, if possible, safely walk to a petrol station and top up.