Although the chances of getting frostbit here are pretty slim, the weather conditions can still be unpredictable and it’s easy to forget how dangerous driving your truck in adverse weather conditions can be… that’s why we at Dennisons have put together a few handy winter driving reminders to help keep you safe on the road.
1. Keep an eye on the forecast – Before you set off on your journey, check the weather for your whole route. Although when you set off it might not be treacherous, further down the road you may run into difficult driving conditions. Knowing what lies ahead en-route can help you prepare for any severe weather.
2. Always be Prepared – Although our Volvo trucks come with 24-hour province wide breakdown cover and 24-hour European cover via Volvo Action Services – it’s still beneficial to pack some supplies like…
- De-Icer and Extendable Ice Scraper
- Warm Clothing (Hat, Gloves)
- Some food and water
- Torch
- Hi-Vis Vest
- Portable Phone Charger
3. Double check your Truck – Even though you’ll already be performing regular inspections on your lorry, pay particularly close attention to fluid levels, tyres and lights during the winter months. If you notice any faults no matter how minor – have these checked immediately – our aftersales team are always here to help and you can find our contact details and our out of hours numbers below.
4. Before You Set Off – Remember to completely clear your truck of snow and ice. When driving, remember to avoid hard acceleration and harsh braking and be mindful that the stopping distance can be over 10 times the normal in frosty conditions. If possible, stick to main roads as these are more likely to have been gritted and be aware of hazards ahead like black ice or broken down vehicles in your path.
5. Enter & Exit with Care – Although this might seem very obvious, be extra, extra careful when getting into or out of your cab as the side steps can often be slippery.
Although a lot of these points are common sense for truck drivers, we hope they act as a little reminder. If the weather becomes too hazardous, we advise you find a safe place to stop and postpone your journey until the conditions improve.
At Dennisons, we can help keep your truck in tip-top condition, contact your local depot today.
Dennisons Ballyclare
Phone: 028 9335 2827
Mon – Fri 8am – 5pm
Sat 8am – 1pm
Dennisons Newry
Phone: 028 3026 5425
Mon – Fri 8.30am – 5pm
Sat 8.30am – 1pm
Dennisons Coleraine
Phone: 028 7032 1155
Mon – Fri 8.30am – 5pm
Sat 8.30am – 1pm
Dennisons Dungannon
Phone: 028 8772 2220
Mon – Fri 8:30am – 5pm
Sat 8:30am - 12:30pm
OUT OF HOURS SUPPORT TELEPHONE NUMBERS
For out of hours support within Northern Ireland:
Ballyclare
- Service - 07736 127 220
- Parts - 07775 757 289
Coleraine
- Service - 07736 491 519
- Parts – 07593 436 412
Dungannon
- Service- 07771 706 830
- Parts- 07771 706 827
Newry
- Service: 07771 706 823
- Parts: 07771 706 834
For out of hours support outside Northern Ireland:
Volvo Action Service: 0800 92 92 92