National Highways has announced it has officially switched to autumn and winter operations on Britain's roads.

Due to milder conditions at the moment, you are unlikely to see gritters spreading salt on the network any time soon.

Roads are only salted when there is a risk of ice forming which is usually when the road surface temperatures are forecast to drop below +1°C or when moisture could be present that could form ice.

Darren Clark, Severe Weather Resilience Manager at National Highways, said: “October is always an important month, giving us the opportunity to test and refine our plans before severe weather conditions arrive later in the season.  

Ludlow Advertiser: National Highways is encouraging drivers to prepare a winter weather kit with items such as anti-freeze and bootsNational Highways is encouraging drivers to prepare a winter weather kit with items such as anti-freeze and boots (Image: PA)

“We operate a well-established daily routine. From 1 October, we receive forecasts and updates at various stages every day during the autumn and winter period. Our decision makers will meet and decide the course of action – even if it is to simply confirm ‘no action’ amid warmer conditions. 

“It may be during any warmer spells in October the public see our drivers doing ‘dummy runs’ where they take gritter vehicles out along their designated routes – without any salt on board – in order to re-familiarise themselves with their routes and identify any problems. And we’d encourage drivers to play their part in being prepared too.” 

National Highways advice for driving in winter

National Highways also has an acronym to help motorists prepare for their journey called TRIP>

The T stands for Top-up, making sure you have fuel, oil and screenwash at the right levels in the vehicle before you set off.

R is for rest, making sure you have around two hours before you drive to help you be as alert as possible, and I is for inspect, you ensure you check your tyres for bumps and grooves.

Finally, P is for prepare, to make sure you are aware of the conditions you are about to travel in.

National Highways also recommends preparing a winter weather kit with items such as anti-freeze and boots in case you get stuck.