County Council warns Nottinghamshire drivers to stay safe

A series of heavy rainstorms is forecast to cross the UK over the Christmas break and although the worst of the weather will miss Nottinghamshire, the council is urging drivers to be aware of wet road surfaces and roads which could get flooded.

Zena Oliver, Nottinghamshire County Council’s principal road safety officer, said: “People tend to underestimate how dangerous a wet road surface can be.

“The advice is much the same as that we would give out during icy weather. Leave plenty of space between yourself and the vehicle in front and allow extra time for breaking.

“Be aware that a wet road surface can be a slippery one and just as dangerous as an icy one.

“People should already have prepared their vehicles for winter by ensuring that tyres are inflated to the correct pressure and that they have sufficient tread for optimum grip.

“And if you’re going to be out and about during wet weather then make sure you plan your route in advance and are aware of any roads which could potentially become flooded or hazardous.

“Always have an alternative route in mind, just in case, and don’t ever drive through floodwater. At best your engine could stall and you’ll be stuck, and at worst you could be swept away.”

People are encouraged to check the Environment Agency website for the latest flood information, follow #floodaware on Twitter and sign up to free flood warnings by visiting: https://fwd.environment-agency.gov.uk/app/olr/home

Met Office weather forecasts and warnings can be found at http://www.metoffice.gov.uk/ and you can follow the Met Office on Twitter at @metoffice and Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/metoffice.