IT'S SNOW JOKE

Having just returned from an overseas trip, conveniently timed just as the snow started to fall in the UK, (well done Chris, sterling work on the PFNW website) the shock of driving a couple of hundred miles in extreme snow conditions and at a time when the entire country is on the move, made me realise that not all people are as well equipped as we are for the cold or long distant safaries to see relatives, so here are a few short cuts that have worked for us over the years.

Before setting off, offload all surplus kit, as the weight of your luggage, presents etc., will more than make up for it. Check oil, fill screen wash (BUY the ready mixed type as it contains anti freeze and works in all weathers).

Take a couple of old carpet runners, these will act as snow mats if you get stuck and snow covers for front and rear windscreens, a lightweight snow shovel is always a good investment, emergency food supplies (Mars bars or Tunnocks..) Sack of Salt (dishwasher salt will do just as well) to spread around at your destination! Blankets and/or sleeping bags alternatively wear several layers of clothes.

Slightly underinflate tyres for more grip and fully charge your car battery during periods of prolonged cold. Take torches, extra batteries (emergency reflective triangle, car lightbulb kit and high viz vests if going to mainland Europe) first aid kit and mobile phone charger in addition to mobile phone!


Fleece blankets, a pillow, Thermos flasks of hot water and the picnic gas stove with kettle and bottles of water. Make your own tea or coffee.. even hot bacon sandwiches! ....en route. We even tracked down some snow chains, considered excessive at the time but ideal now!

Something that has really worked well is a small solar car battery trickle charger (Maplins have them on offer at £9!) it plugs into the car cigarette lighter socket, and the solar panel is velcroed to the rear boot inside shelf. It works even in overcast conditions, our car was parked for some 3 weeks and the engine turned over first time when we 'dug it out' last weekend from the long term car park.

Finally, ensure Tom Tom and other satnavs kits are loaded with up to date maps! Also visit http://www.aa.com/ and turn on your traffic alerts on the car radio. BBC Local radio stations really do know whats happening. And finally, have a brilliant Christmas or Holiday. Relax have fun, totally forget all that's happening back at home, the same old problems will still be here when you return but we'll be keeping an eye on Park Farm whilst you are away so that's one problem less!

Seasons Greetings from Julian Bray & Morag Irving

(C) Park Farm Neighbourhood Watch Peterborough UK Tel: 01733 345581 Broadcasters direct call ISDN 'down the line' 01733 555319 ISDN Codecs G722 & APT All Press Enquiries Julian Bray 01733 345581