15 December 2010

RSA urges caution as severe weather conditions set to return

Visit www.rsa.ie for ‘Severe Weather Advice for Road Users’

The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has, today Wednesday 15th December, re-issued its message for road users to exercise caution as snow and icy weather conditions are set to return to parts of the county again.

Met Eireann has advised that it will be very cold and wintry everywhere from Thursday into next week (snow showers initially across Ulster Connacht and west Munster). 5 - 10 cm of snow, and more over higher ground up to Friday morning with more to follow countrywide is forecast.

In areas that are badly affected by snow and icy conditions road users should ask themselves if making a journey by road is absolutely necessary. If not consider delaying a trip until the weather and road conditions improve. If using the roads in such conditions is unavoidable be prepared.

The golden rule is to drive, cycle or walk with care and caution and expect the unexpected. The RSA is encouraging the public to visit rsa.ie for advice and tips on dealing with the severe weather conditions. The RSA has developed a dedicated section on its website to provide road users with advice in severe weather situations. It includes two publications entitled ‘Severe Weather Advice for Road Users’ and ‘Severe Weather Advice for Pedestrians, Cyclists and Motorcyclists’.

The public also has access to a series of one page fact sheets for example ‘Top Ten Tips for Driving in Snow and Icy Conditions’. In addition, pre-recorded audio safety tips are available on the site to the public but also to broadcasters looking for messages to use for ‘Public Service Broadcasting’ purposes.

Ends

For further information please contact Communications Department; 096 - 25008

Editors Note

Visit the Severe Weather Advice for Road Users page