Ennis-Flint | Winter is coming: Time to step up road safety

Matt Lambert Posted On October 30, 2018

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A powerful Winter is upon us and its frigid grip is beginning to take hold of many countries around the globe and it is a concern that we are able to keep safe whilst travelling between our destinations. Those most at risk are pedestrians and drivers on the roads facing their daily travels.

Ennis-Flint are proud to be able to help improve the travel safety of pedestrians, cyclists and drivers braving these harsh conditions.

Preformed Thermoplastic Road Markings are a long lasting road marking that can be applied during the cold weather without any specialist treatment on the road surfaces. There are no road or ambient temperature requirements and these road markings can be applied in low temperatures without concern. Keeping the roads safe for travellers and maintaining their appearance is an important mission, which we take pride in being a part of. When the time comes to improve our roads during the cold seasons, be sure to take the necessary precautions to keep safe and care for the road markings.

– Handle the material with care. In the cold you can become cold and stiff, much like you the materials can lose their flexibility.

– Be sure to remove all salt and de-icing chemicals prior to the application of the markings. Pressure washing the area is recommended, even if there is no evidence of chemicals used, passing vehicles could track these chemicals from heavily concentrated areas.

– Ensure no moisture is present prior to the application. Remove all moisture from the asphalt by sweeping the propane heat torch over the surface.

– Heat the material thoroughly and make sure indents in the surface are closing properly.

– Always perform the chisel test to ensure proper bonding.

– Keep two 18kg propane tanks on hand in case one freezes. The tank is frozen if frost forms on the outside of the tank and the gas pressure drops. If you notice these changes in the tank, make sure to switch to the spare tank. Tanks should be adequate for a full day of work.

– Feather the material edges for better snow plough resistance. Use a wide putty knife to feather the edges whilst the material is still soft. In addition, apply more heat to the leading edges so the material will flow more to create a tapered edge.

With powerful winds, heavy, persistent showers, hail, thick snow and worst of all, ice, affecting us every day it is important to keep warm and be aware of your surroundings. Our streets can become a confusing place when caked with snow, it is hard to tell where the road ends and the pavements begins but taking the right precautions can keep you and those around you safe.

– Use low gears to maintain traction, especially when facing hills. Never push down on the gas pedal, keep steady pressure.

– Do not rush or try to overtake one another, especially snow ploughs or road-gritters. In extreme weather, your vision becomes limited as does the vision of those on the roads too. Keep a safe distance and take your time, panicking and rushing could cause accidents.

– Bridges and Overpasses freeze first.

– Keep your lights and windshield free of snow, hail and rain as best you can.

– Make sure your headlights are on so you are visible to pedestrians and drivers alike.

– Brake gently to avoid skidding or sliding.

– Leave plenty of room between yourself and other vehicles and reduce your speed.

– The best advice for driving in the bad weather would be: Not to drive at all if you can avoid it, otherwise keep your eyes on the road and pay attention to the road markings, these could save your life during the Winter seasons.