1. Vehicle Maintenance Matters
Regular vehicle maintenance is crucial, especially in winter. Ensure that your fleet undergoes comprehensive inspections, including brakes, tyres, and heating systems. A well-maintained vehicle is better equipped to handle winter conditions.
2. Tyre Safety
Invest in winter tyres. They provide better traction and handling in cold weather, reducing the risk of accidents. Encourage your drivers to check tyre pressure regularly and replace worn-out tyres promptly.
3. Winter Emergency Kits
Equip each vehicle with a winter emergency kit. These kits should include items like blankets, flashlights, a first-aid kit, non-perishable food, and water. In case of a breakdown or unforeseen circumstances, your drivers will be prepared.
4. Driver Training
Implement a winter driving safety program for your employees. RED’s winter training course covers topics such as journey planning, equipment to be carried, tyre type and checks, and safe following distances and more. Knowledgeable drivers are more likely to make better decisions in challenging conditions and cause fewer collisions.
5. Communication is Key
Maintain open lines of communication with your drivers. Encourage them to report adverse conditions promptly, and establish a protocol for emergency situations. Communication can prevent accidents and ensure a timely response in case of emergencies.
6. Vehicle Tracking Systems:
Invest in vehicle tracking systems to monitor the location and condition of your fleet. These systems can provide real-time data on driver behaviour and vehicle performance, allowing you to address potential issues proactively.
7. Encourage Rest:
Fatigue is a significant safety concern in winter months. Encourage your drivers to get sufficient rest before long trips and to take breaks as needed. Well-rested drivers are more alert and responsive.
As the winter season approaches, safeguarding your company’s driving fleet becomes paramount. By implementing these practical measures, you can help protect your employees and assets while maintaining the efficiency of your operations. Winter safety isn’t just about avoiding accidents; it’s about ensuring a reliable and responsible fleet that can meet the challenges of the season head-on.
Stay safe, stay prepared, and keep your company’s driving fleet rolling smoothly through the winter months.
Our driving advisory PDF is a valuable resource designed to equip you and your team with essential insights, tips, and best practices for tackling winter roads with confidence. From vehicle maintenance recommendations to emergency preparedness strategies, this guide covers all aspects of winter driving, empowering you to make informed decisions that prioritise safety.
Our Winter Driver Training course is designed to equip drivers with the skills they need to safely navigate adverse weather conditions, including heavy rain, fog, snow and ice.
Level up your driving skills and safety awareness with our dynamic advanced performance driver training.
Learn all the skills of winter driving and skid control at our own driver training centre at the spectacular Donington Park race circuit.
RED has Fleet Driver Training Instructors throughout the UK which means that we can handle your driver training requirements as a one-stop-shop. We are geared up to help PLCs, local governments, universities, charities and privately-owned businesses. Whether you are part of a multi-national business or an SME, we have a service to meet your needs.
Give us a call to discuss your Driver Risk Management or Fleet Driver training objectives.
We can also offer our guidance if you are looking to take your first steps into managing road risk within your organisation.