Motorists have been advised to make sure their vehicles are fit for the road as bad weather continues to hamper Northern Ireland with further storms expected this week.

Chief Inspector Douglas Hogg, Head of Roads Policing Rural Region, said a little planning before the onset of winter should make sure that your vehicle can be relied upon in the severest of winter weather conditions.

He offered the following advice for motorists to consider:

• Check the strength of the anti-freeze levels in your vehicle’s cooling system. Top up with the correct additive to bring it up to the required strength.
• Check all lights are clean and working properly. Replace faulty bulbs immediately. It is a good idea to carry spare bulbs.
• Check windscreen wipers and washers are working effectively. Keep the windscreen washer reservoir topped up and add a screen wash to the water to prevent it from freezing.
• Keep windows clean inside and out, and make sure that you have all round visibility. Prepare for frost by obtaining a suitable de-icer and plastic scraper.
• Check tyre pressures and ensure that the tyres, including the spare, are in good condition. The minimum tread is 1.6 mm.

"In the interests of road safety remember to adjust your driving to suit the prevailing road conditions, keep your distance from the vehicle in front, and always drive in a manner that ensures your safety, the safety of your passengers, and the safety of other road users,” Chief Inspector Hogg concluded.

(MB/SP)