Very important information.
The Road Safety Authority (RSA) has issued a fresh warning to road users regarding the dangers posed by freezing fog, which has been forecasted to impact Ireland over the coming days.
It said that freezing fog - combined with possible icy roads caused by expected -5 and below temperatures - poses a safety risk for road users.
"As visibility is reduced in such conditions, a collision involving one vehicle can quickly involve many others, especially if driving too fast and too close to one another," the RSA's statement reads.
"The greatest risk is of a multiple-vehicle pile-up on roads with higher speeds such as motorways and dual carriageways.
"Dense fog reduces visibility greatly and makes driving very dangerous. However freezing fog, when liquid fog droplets freeze to surfaces, can make it difficult to keep the windscreen surface clear."
As such, the RSA is urging people to check local and national weather forecasts before setting out on a journey.
Road users are also advised to clear their windows and mirrors before setting out and to carry a screen scraper and de-icer.
People should also not use hot water to de-ice a windscreen as it can crack the glass, the RSA also said.
When faced with fog or freezing fog, the state agency advises:
- In patches of fog, switch on fog lights where visibility is reduced. As you enter fog, check your mirrors and slow down. Use your foot brake lightly so that your lights warn following drivers.
- To prevent windscreen wipers from freezing and seizing up in freezing fog, add anti-freeze screen washer to the water tank. Check the wipers for wear and tear and replace them if they are damaged.
- Do not drive on the tail-lights of the vehicle in front. This can give a false sense of security and you will be too close to be able to brake safely. In heavy fog, turn off your radio and let down your driver’s window a fraction, so that you can hear other traffic.
- Remember to switch off your fog lights once the foggy conditions improve.
The RSA is also reminding road users of the dangers posed by ice and black ice:
- Black ice is difficult to see. It is nearly transparent ice that often looks like a harmless puddle or is overlooked entirely. It can occur especially in sheltered or shaded areas on roads, under trees and adjacent to high walls. If the road looks polished or glossy, it could be black ice.
- In icy conditions manoeuvre gently, slow down and leave extra distance between you and the vehicle in front. Too much steering is bad and avoid harsh braking and acceleration. Use the highest gear possible to avoid wheel spin. Select a low gear when travelling downhill especially if through bends.
- Watch out for vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists and allow extra space when overtaking them.
Meanwhile, pedestrians and cyclists are advised to:
- Avoid going out in dense fog or freezing fog unless it is a necessity.
- If absolutely necessary, make sure you are clearly visible by carrying a torch and wearing reflective clothing.
- Stay well in off the road where there is no footpath when vehicles are approaching.
For information on the latest weather warnings issued for Ireland by Met Éireann, see
here.
