Be snow ready with these essential tips for driving in icy conditions this weekend

Major disruptions are expected on roads across the country this weekend with Met Éireann issuing severe weather warnings for snow and ice as an Arctic air mass takes hold.

Six counties have been given a Status Orange warning for snow and ice, including Carlow, Kilkenny, Wicklow, Clare, Limerick and Tipperary. 

The remaining parts of Leinster have also been issued a Status Yellow warning alongside, Connacht, Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan and Waterford. Meanwhile, Cork and Kerry have a Status Yellow warning for snow and rain.

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With significant accumulations of snowfall expected on Saturday and Sunday, the roads will undoubtedly be treacherous for drivers as well as pedestrians. 

Here are some essential tips to make sure you keep safe on the roads this weekend.

Make sure your vehicle is winter ready

Such icy conditions can be a great reminder as to why it's important to have your vehicle regularly serviced. However, there's lots of ways you can ensure your vehicle is safe for the roads without needing to pop into your local garage.

One of the most important things to check with your vehicle is your tyres. Before setting out this weekend, make sure you check that you have at least 3 millimetres of tread depth on your tyres and that the tyre pressure is at the manufacturer's recommended level.

You should also top up your vehicle with anti-freeze and screen wash, as well as check for wear and tear on wiper blades and replace them as soon as they start to smear rather than clean the windows. Also ensure that all the vehicle lights are working and clean as visibility is drastically reduced in such weather.

An Garda Síochána also recommend that you carry the following in your boot in case of emergencies: a high visibility vest, wellington boots, 2 hazard warning triangles, de-icing equipment, first aid kit, a torch, blanket, winter jacket and warm clothes, as well as drinking water.

Driving in dangerous conditions 

Before setting out on your journey, remove all snow and ice from your vehicle, remembering to clear any on the roof. If snow is left on your roof, it can fall onto your windscreen while driving and could restrict your vision. 

Also, clear your windows and mirrors before you start driving with a screen scraper and de-icer. Remember, do not use hot water on the windscreen because it can crack the glass.

Braking in icy conditions is one of the most obvious concerns for drivers. The RSA urges people to remember that it takes significantly longer to stop in such conditions. Their advice is: "Slow down, use all controls delicately and leave extra distance between you and the vehicle in front.

"Avoid over steering and harsh braking and harsh acceleration. Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin. Select a low gear when travelling downhill especially if through bends."

Visibility is another major issue for drivers. Motorists are advised to not drive on the tail-lights of the vehicle in front (known as target fixing), as it gives a false sense of security and you can be too close to break safely. 

Remember to use dipped headlights at all times and fog lights in heavy snow to ensure you're seen.

Always look out for vulnerable road users like pedestrians, cyclists or motorcyclists and allow extra space.

Advice for pedestrians 

Anyone out walking over the weekend is advised to take extra care when walking near traffic or crossing the road in case of slips on the ice.

As motorists are warned about visibility hazards in snowy conditions, so too are pedestrians. People are urged to wear high visibility clothing when walking and to carry a torch. 

It is also important to wear clothes that do not restrict your hearing or vision to ensure maximum awareness.