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.
Photo: Michael Hussey www.youghalonline.com

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.

Motorists are advised to:

1. Check local and national weather forecasts before setting out on a journey.
2. Clear your windows and mirrors before you set out, carry a screen scraper and de-icer.
3. 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:

1. 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.
2. Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin.
3. Manoeuvre gently, avoiding harsh braking and acceleration.
4. 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
5. Remember that heavy snowfall and rain reduce visibility. Use dipped headlights and reduce speed.

In the event of a minor skid do the following:

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

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.