Due to popular demand, Cleveland Fire Brigade along with the Cleveland Road Safety Partnership is offering motorists another chance to get their car checked for FREE at their latest drive-thru vehicle safety check event this month to ensure it’s safe to drive during the current cold conditions.
The next drop-in event will take place at Hartlepool Community Fire Station on Saturday 25th February 2023 (10am – 3pm) and will include a five-point vehicle check on tyres, lights, wipers, fluid levels and washer bottles.
Drivers don’t need to book an appointment but are asked to drive to the station via Clark Street (back end of premises).
The previous winter check event that took place at Redcar Community Fire Station back in January 2023 found that out of the 43 vehicles checked, 19 had faults or advisories that required action and most drivers that turned up benefitted from a free screen wash top up, goodie bag and safety advice.
Andrew Bright, Learn and Live Coordinator, said: “It is important that your vehicle is fully prepared for the cold temperatures, ice and snow. These checks are a quick and easy way to make sure your vehicle is road ready, topped up and ready to go. A broken-down vehicle on the road can put not only you but others at risk. We are urging drivers – prepare it, check it, don’t wreck it.
Along with checking vehicles we also ask drivers to listen out for weather forecasts and travel updates before setting off. If the conditions are a bit tricky then consider delaying non-essential journeys until the roads are clearer or have been treated. If you do have to travel, make sure you have cleared windscreens and mirrors and give yourself extra time, keep your distance and keep your speed down.
Don’t forget to keep a winter kit on board. This should include an ice-scraper, de-icer, warm clothes and boots. Sunglasses can also be very handy as low winter sun can block out visibility.”
The Brigade is a member of the Cleveland Road Safety Partnership and has teamed up with Kwik-Fit to carry out the checks.
For more road safety information visit: www.clevelandfire.gov.uk/safety/road-safety/
