Before winter
- Batteries tested, because cold weather finds weak ones.
- Tyres with plenty of tread, correct pressure and no damage.
- Antifreeze strength checked.
- Wipers replaced if smearing, and screen wash with winter strength.
- Heater, demister and window heating tested.
- Lights all working and cleaned, because shorter days mean more dark driving.
Every cold morning
- Clear all glass, mirrors and lights of ice and snow. Do not drive with only a peephole.
- Clear roof snow, which can fall onto other drivers.
- Check air tanks for water and the brakes for sticking.
- AdBlue can freeze in severe cold, so know your vehicle's behaviour.
- Allow extra time and extra distance.
Carry
A torch, warm clothing, a shovel or de-icer, a charged phone and a high-visibility vest.
Report quickly
Frost makes defects obvious: air leaks, sticking doors and dead lamps. Make sure drivers report them with a photo, and that the office can see them. See defect reporting.
Related
Daily vehicle check checklistA practical daily vehicle check checklist for lorries and large vehicles in the UK. Copy it onto paper or build it in Kovi as a template.Tyre checks for lorries and vansTread, pressure, damage and age: what a driver can check on a tyre in thirty seconds, and when to stop and report it.