Gritters out as Devon turns chilly

It's slippery out there

Devon’s gritter drivers have been out overnight treating the county’s main routes as freezing conditions continue.

The majority of gritters were in Exeter and East Devon salting roads as well as the busiest cycle routes in the city.

Road surface temperatures could fall below -4 Celsius over the coming nights.

Councillor Stuart Hughes, Devon County Council cabinet member for highway management, said: “With the freezing conditions set to stay with us throughout this week there is likely to be an ongoing risk of icy patches... but please remember that minor routes off the gritting network could be hazardous. However, whether a road has been treated or not, there is a possibility it could be icy. I would urge everyone to take extra care and allow plenty of time for your journey.”

The county council has the following advice:
• Never assume a road has been salted. Remember that showers or rain will wash salt off roads leaving them prone to ice, and in extreme cold even salting will not stop ice from forming;
• Allow additional time for your journey.
• Reduce your speed and leave more space between you and the vehicle in front;
• Drive with care and according to the conditions;
• Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18C, particularly if you are not mobile, have long-term illness or are 65 or over. The NHS website has more information on staying healthy during cold weather.

Radio Exe has regular updates on weather conditions.