HIGHWAYS chiefs are warning motorists to take care as the winter approaches and temperatures plummet.

Dorset shivered through its first cold snap last weekend which saw gritting vehicles hit the road for the first time this season.

Residents are now being reminded by Dorset County Council about driving in cold and icy conditions and checking vehicles ahead of another freeze.

Drivers should plan their journeys ahead; checking whether roads are open and allowing extra time for their journey.

For added safety, drivers should ensure someone knows when they're leaving and when they aim to arrive.

In icy conditions, Dorset Highways will send gritters out on its 22 main gritting routes – which cover 25 per cent of the council’s roads – but drivers should remember to manoeuvre gently and avoid harsh braking or acceleration.

Cllr Peter Finney, Cabinet member for Environment, said: “We’ve been on our first gritting run of the season, and I’m sure there’ll be more to follow.

"Now is a good time to make essential checks to your vehicle before icy conditions set in.

“You can easily check for yourself that windows, mirrors and lights are clear. It’s also easy enough to check tyres have good tread and windscreen wipers are in working order.

"If in doubt, take your car to any reputable garage to have these things checked for you – as well as your battery.”

You can stay up to date with the gritting activity on www.dorsetforyou.com/gritting or by following @TravelDorset on Twitter.

You can find more advice and travel tips on driving in severe weather online: www.dorsetforyou.com/severe-weather-driving