Top tips for winter motoring from Volvo are:

Guard the radiator against Arctic temperatures by using a good antifreeze and keep the engine topped up with oil

Never drive off with iced-up windows. De-icer will help disperse ice quickly, so keep a pack in the car

Check tyre pressures are correct for the car and its heavy load

Always make sure lights are kept clean and check them every morning

Store a bag of emergency items in the boot, including a small shovel, matting, jumpers, gloves and hats, boots, torch and chocolate bars

If you have a mobile phone, ensure the battery is kept fully charged

Ensure children are securely buckled in, and that a child must never sit in the front passenger seat if the car has a passenger airbag fitted

Ensure all luggage is securely held in place

Tempers may fray on long journeys so take regular breaks

When travelling long distances, tell a friend or family member your route and expected time of arrival.

Story date: Wednesday 10 February

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.