A wintry Road Safety group prepare for action in Richmondshire

Community safety experts are urging motorists to take extra care when driving in the wintry conditions.

The Richmondshire Community Safety Partnership’s annual winter driving campaign was launched this week - to reiterate key points to remember when the bad weather takes over.

“As we all know - from the last three weeks - bad weather can strike suddenly so it is especially important to always be prepared,” said Dave Pitt, Richmond Station Manager, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service.

“We should all carry around emergency gear at all times and be prepared for all conditions. The last few weeks have seen many accidents – some serious. “One accident is one too many – we want to ensure that everyone gets around the roads of Richmond in safety at all times of the year.”

Members of the Community Safety Partnership and 95 Alive are asking residents to:

• Plan journeys, ensuring you tell someone where you are going
• Allow plenty of extra time to allow for the weather conditions
• Remember it can take up to ten times longer to stop your vehicle in the ice and snow
• Drive safely and to the road conditions, your capabilities and speed limits

Winter driving packs are available at the Richmondshire District Council Community Offices in Richmond, Colburn, Reeth, Leyburn and Catterick. And a radio campaign is running on Fresh FM.

There will also be a series of winter driving roadshows when drivers can talk to the experts – the next one is in Richmond Market place on Saturday (January 16).