It's cold outside! Frost and ice conditions spark warnings to road users
A Status Yellow - Low Temperature/Ice warning for Ireland is in place by Met Éireann until 12 noon today.
Forecasters cautioned about icy stretches leading to hazardous travelling conditions, especially on untreated roads and paths.
There will be wintry showers in the northwest and southwest and possible accumulations especially in mountainous areas, could lead to disruption.
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) is advising all road users to prepare for hazardous conditions on roads and footpaths.
Road users should expect icy roads and be extra cautious on untreated road surfaces. Hazardous travelling conditions are expected, especially on untreated roads and footpaths.
Road users should also watch out for black ice. If the road looks polished or glossy it could be, "black ice” one of winter's worst hazards: Black Ice is difficult to see. It is nearly transparent ice that often looks like a harmless puddle or is overlooked entirely. The sheltered / shaded areas on roads, under trees and adjacent to high walls are prone to black ice.
The advice for drivers to deal with icy road conditions is.
- Clear your windows and mirrors of any ice, carry a screen scraper and de-icer.
- Remember it takes longer to stop in icy conditions. Manoeuvre gently, slow down and increase your braking distance or ‘safe space’ by leaving an extra distance between you and the vehicle in front.
- Avoid too much steering, harsh braking, and acceleration.
- Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin. Select a low gear when travelling downhill especially if through bends.
- Check tyres and replace them if the tread depth falls below 3mm. Check they’re inflated to the correct tyre pressure.
- Familiarise yourself with any safety assist technology like Electronic Stability Control (ESC) or Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) in your vehicle.
- Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists and allow extra space when overtaking them.