With winter fast approaching and driving conditions deteriorating fast, Thames Valley Police are stressing the message that common sense saves lives, writes Emma Henry.

The wet and windy conditions which caused mayhem yesterday and the cold, icy snap inevitably on its way all mean drivers and other road users need to take additional precautions on and before their journeys.

As the Oxford Mail's road safety campaign continues into its second day, senior officers have issued tips for readers on safe winter travel.

Insp Dave Hartin, who heads the force's traffic operations unit, said: "Road users, including drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, need to make extra sure they are doing everything they can for a safe journey.

"Drivers must give themselves extra time in the morning to clear their wing-mirrors and car windows, including rear, front and side, and make sure they are doing everything they can for a safe journey. They also need to give themselves extra time for their journey so they can drive at appropriate speed when the roads are icy or wet.

"Drivers need to ensure they use their fog lights only when it is appropriate which is when visibility is seriously reduced otherwise they will dazzle other road users." Insp Hartin added: "Cyclists and pedestrians can also do their bit and make sure they can be clearly seen by wearing light-coloured or reflective clothing. Cyclists must also use lights in poor visibility in the same way that car drivers have to. This is for the cyclist's own safety as much as anything else."

He said drivers should alter their driving to suit the conditions. In poor weather, they need to stay well back from the vehicle in front as stopping distances should be at least doubled.

Extreme care must be taken when the roads are icy as sudden actions could cause a skid.

Insp Hartin added: "Nobody should need to be reminded that during the winter months, roads are even more hazardous than usual. Failure to take basic precautions and use common sense on the roads could lead to death or serious injury.

"We hope everyone will help us prevent this by doing their bit."

Next month, Thames Valley Police officers will be out on the roads ensuring drivers and cyclists are taking suitable precautions. They will also be giving advice to cyclists and pedestrians about appropriate high-visibility clothing.