Cllr. Laura McGonigle

In response to a Weather Alert from Met Éireann, Cork City Council is advising all road users to take special care when using the roads in the coming days.

Lowest temperatures of zero to -4 degrees are predicted over the next 3 days with frost and icy patches developing as winds ease and clear spells develop. Highest temperatures today will be only 1 to 4 degrees and icy conditions will become widespread.

Salting and gritting will be carried out on national routes, bus routes, main traffic routes, city centre bridges/footpaths and other critical sections of roadway as dictated by the weather conditions which are constantly under review. Emergency contact number 021/4966512.

Motorists are advised to:

• Check local and national weather forecasts before setting out on a journey.
• Clear your windows and mirrors before you set out, carry a screen scraper and de-icer.
• Carry a mobile phone in case you need to call for assistance. Do not use it while driving. Stop somewhere safe or ask a passenger to make a call.

If driving in icy or snowy conditions drivers should:

• Remember it takes longer to stop in icy conditions than on a dry road. Drive slowly and allow extra room between your vehicle and the vehicle in front.
• Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin.
• Manoeuvre gently, avoiding harsh braking and acceleration.
• To brake on ice or snow without locking your wheels, get into a low gear earlier than normal, allow your speed to fall and use the brake pedal gently
• Remember that heavy snowfall and rain reduce visibility. Use dipped headlights and reduce speed.

In the event of a minor skid do the following:

• If you start to skid, release the brake pedal fully and stay off the brake.
• Turn the steering wheel in the same direction as the skid and ease off the accelerator at the same time.
• Avoid over correction with too much steering.