The acronym outlines six essential steps that every driver should take before setting out on a journey
Driving in cold weather can be daunting, especially when there’s ice on the roads. But a simple piece of advice from the RAC could help you stay in control and keep your car prepared for wintry conditions.
Surprisingly, the firm’s tip all centres on one word – ‘FORCES’. Although simple, this acronym outlines six essential steps that every driver should take before setting out on a journey. “Cold conditions over the winter can exacerbate any underlying mechanical problems with your car and even lead to a breakdown,” recent advice from the RAC has explained.
“We’d rather stop our members breaking down in the first place than have them suffer the inconvenience of being stuck at the side of the road, so we have devised a list of things to look out for to help prevent the more avoidable breakdowns.”
How the ‘FORCES’ rule works
1. F stands for fuel. Refuelling your car is always essential, but winter conditions may lead to more frequent stops and starts due to ice or increased traffic. These activities can consume fuel, so it’s crucial to check that you have enough before starting your trip.
2. O stands for oil. Similarly, drivers should always check they have enough oil before setting out on the roads. Oil is vital for ensuring your engine parts operate smoothly and helps prevent breakdowns.
3. R stands for rubber. Before heading out, check that your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure and tread. This will help ensure that your car maintains good grip in icy weather.
4. C stands for coolant. Coolant not only prevents a car’s engine from overheating but also helps avoid freezing in cold weather. Therefore, maintaining proper levels is crucial.
5. E stands for electrics. Brake lights, fog lights, and indicators are especially crucial during wintry weather when visibility might be reduced. Check they are working before setting out on the roads.
6. S stands for screenwash. Last but not least, it’s crucial to keep your windscreen washer filled up. In colder conditions, a more concentrated solution is important.
For more information, head to the RAC’s website here.
How to de-ice a car safely
De-icing your car can be time-consuming, but there are ways to make the process quicker. RAC recommends using a scraper and de-icing spray, although homemade solutions can also be effective.
This can even be as simple as water with a teaspoon of salt or a solution of three parts vinegar to one part water in a spray bottle. The RAC adds: “Don’t wait until the first frost before discovering you have run out of de-icer: plan ahead.
“Squirt the de-icer over the windscreen, before clearing the ice with a scraper. It’s also worth lifting up your wipers by hand to check they are not frozen to the windscreen.”
If you choose to add water to a homemade de-icing solution, avoid using boiling water. Boiling water could, in the worst cases, weaken the glass and lead to cracks.
