Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 01

THE MOTORIST’S GUIDE TO SURVIVING SNOW, ICE, RAIN, AND RELATIVES 02 Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 03 CONTENTS // Introduction...... 04

Foreword...... 05

Winter Motoring Essentials Planning & Preparation...... 06 Equipment...... 08

Rain How to prevent aquaplaning ...... 10 How to ford deep water...... 12 How to escape from a sinking car ...... 14

Ice How to drive in wintery conditions ...... 16 How to avoid a skid ...... 18 How to avoid slips when walking ...... 20

Snow How to get out of deep snow ...... 22 How to recognise & treat hypothermia ...... 24 How to attract attention & raise the alarm ...... 26

General How to survive a traffic jam ...... 28 How to give first aid following a collision ...... 30 How to sleep in your car ...... 32 How to survive Christmas with the in-laws ...... 34

John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman Biography ...... 36 04 Introduction INTRODUCTION // In a recent study more than a third of motorists told Halfords Autocentres that they were anxious about driving in the deteriorating weather conditions of winter – with one in ten admitting to being genuinely frightened.

So, amid falling temperatures and rising levels of concern among drivers, Halfords Autocentres has worked with renowned survival expert, former SAS Sergeant Major and author of the best-selling SAS Survival Handbook John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman to create the ultimate Motoring Survival Guide.

Over the following pages Halfords Autocentres, together with Lofty, hope to share some invaluable advice that will help you avoid being caught out this winter.

From preparing your car and avoiding aquaplaning, to fording water, getting out of deep snow and how to treat hypothermia – it’s all in here.

We hope you enjoy reading our Motoring Survival Guide as much as we’ve enjoyed compiling it and wish you many miles of trouble-free winter motoring.

THE HALFORDS AUTOCENTRES TEAM Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 05 FOREWORD // During my time in the military I drove pretty much every vehicle with wheels (as well as few without them) across every terrain and in the most severe weather conditions imaginable.

I’ve also written several guides on survival techniques and delivered hundreds of training courses on the subject, but there are two things I cannot teach – common sense and experience.

Common sense is taking advice and listening to the experts. Experience is what you get when you don’t!

So, in this guide I hope to share some of the common sense knowledge I have built up through my experiences and – together with some sage advice from Halfords Autocentres – give motorists some tips on how to handle different situations that they may encounter this winter (and in some cases how to avoid them).

For most people ‘survival’ conjures up images of being stranded on a mountain peak, in the desert, or shipwrecked in the tropics. However, the reality is that every time you get behind the wheel and fasten your seatbelt you are (whether consciously or not) giving yourself a greater chance of survival.

I hope you find this Winter Motoring Survival Guide useful and informative. Most importantly I hope you follow the advice it contains.

John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman 06 Winter Motoring Essentials Planning & Preparation WINTER MOTORING ESSENTIALS // PLANNING One in five motorists perform no checks at all on their car in preparation for winter driving – whilst half of those that do check wait until the temperatures plunge – which could be too late.

Figure 1.1 Winter Motoring - Planning Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 07

Because winter driving is particularly demanding on cars, it is vital that a thorough vehicle check is performed before the cold weather strikes to minimise drivers’ chances of being stranded in particularly unpleasant conditions.

• Tyres – make sure your tyres are inflated • Fuel – always keep your fuel tank topped-up to correctly and that you have sufficient tread make sure that you have more than sufficient on your tyres to cope with wet and slippery fuel for your journey. Allow for traffic delays, conditions. potential detours and the need to keep warm • A new car tyre begins life with (see section on how to sleep in your car) . approximately 8mm of tread and the Running a tank right down to empty can minimum legal limit is 1.6mm across allow deposits at the bottom into your engine the central ¾ of the tyre. However, causing damage. independent research shows that tyres with 3mm of tread have an average • Light-up – ensure all front and rear lights 25% better performance than those at are working and free from dirt and snow. 1.6mm (equivalent to an extra 8 metres An estimated 2.6 million cars are being stopping distance in wet conditions). driven illegally on the roads with defective lights - significantly increasing the risk of • Battery – in winter the increased use of an accident. lights, blowers, wipers, heated seats and other electrical devices place additional demands • Visibility – check that your screen wash on your car’s battery and charging system. reservoir is full of a good quality product rated Charge your battery (particularly if you make to a low enough temperature (-5 may be fine frequent short journeys that don’t replenish for most of the year but consider replacing its charge) and consider a battery check if it with -10 or -20 during the winter months). appears to be struggling to cope. Also ensure that your wiper blades are in good condition and clear your screen properly. • On the level – make sure your car’s oil and water are at the optimum levels and recheck Because almost half of motorists don’t know how to them regularly. Make sure that you also have perform these vital checks, Halfords Autocentres sufficient anti-freeze in your cooling system to offer a winter inspection service from just £12.95 and protect the engine when temperatures drop. this includes a free consumer pack worth £10.

SURVIVAL TIP: In the military we call checking over the vehicle

you are about to drive away ‘first parade’. (Lofty)

08 Winter Motoring Essentials Equipment WINTER MOTORING ESSENTIALS // EQUIPMENT The majority of the UK has been colder than Stockholm for at least three weeks during the past five winters and many experts are warning that blizzards, extreme cold and record-breaking snowfall lie ahead.

Figure 2.1 Winter Motoring Essentials - Equipment Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 09

The best defence against the elements is forward planning and those drivers that carry the right equipment with them in their cars are more likely to remain safe and mobile.

There are some things that can be found in the home that should be considered essential:

• Food – non-perishable, high-energy food and traffic mean journeys can take longer so make snacks such as chocolate or nuts are best. Plus sure you have the means to carry/collect more bottled water and a hot drink in a flask to keep fuel if needed. you hydrated. • Tyre Snow Grip – a temporary spray on snow • Warm clothes – including a waterproof jacket, chain that improves traction on ice, snow and hat, scarf and gloves. wet surfaces when you have dug your way out. • Practical footwear – sturdy walking boots or • Universal Multigrip Snow Socks – a wellingtons should be carried in case you need lightweight but durable alternative to snow to continue on foot. chains that can be fitted in 2 minutes to • Mobile phone – keep your mobile charged provide you with grip in deeper snow and on and ensure you have any emergency numbers icy roads. (e.g. breakdown service provider) with you. • Halfords First Aid Kit – also contains a fire • Vehicle handbook – full of useful information extinguisher because stationary traffic can so keep it in the car with you. lead to engine overheating, plus a thermal blanket should you become stranded. We have also compiled a list of ‘sub-zero • Halfords Heavy Duty Tow Rope – suitable heroes’ available from Halfords stores, which for small, medium and larger cars up to will help motorists avoid being left out in the 3.5 tonnes. Complete with 2 convenient heavy cold this winter. duty snap hooks, warning flag and ‘on tow’ sign. • AA Emergency Winter Car Kit – contains • 12 volt heater – a compact car heater designed useful emergency items including a foldable for defrosting and as a heating aid in more snow shovel, adult high visibility vest, LED extreme temperatures. torch, booster cables and waterproof poncho. • USB Car Charger – provides up to 1 amp of • AA snow & ice grips – universal grips that power from your car’s cigarette lighter socket. fasten easily to footwear to provide a sure- Ensure your phone is always charged in case footing. of emergency (compatible with most smart • Halfords Motorist’s Tool Kit – a set of the phones including the iPhone 5). most essential tools in case of an emergency in a compact storage case. • Halfords Screenwash – rated to -5 -10 -20 and SURVIVAL TIP: -30 for all weather conditions. Your mobile phone is a survival tool, so make sure it • Holts Tyreweld, 400ml – this emergency has plenty of battery. I heard of a man who got stuck puncture repair solution seals and inflates up Mount Everest and couldn’t contact his base punctured tyres instantly eliminating the camp but managed to ring his wife in Hong Kong

need for a roadside wheel change. who initiated a rescue. (Lofty) • Plasti-can, 5 litre – the weather and resulting 10 Rain How to prevent aquaplaning RAIN // HOW TO PREVENT AQUAPLANING Whether due to heavy rain or melting snow, aquaplaning occurs when water accumulates between a car’s tyre and the surface of the road, causing the vehicle to lose grip.

Figure 3.1 How to prevent aquaplaning Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 11

When this occurs your steering will feel light due to the low friction – like you’re driving on a sheet of ice. The consequence of this is reduced steering control and increased stopping distance. Prevention is always better than a cure, so take the following steps to minimise the chances of aquaplaning.

If despite your best efforts you do aquaplane it is 01 // Monitor Tyre Tread Depth important to stay calm. Remember that it is not the Whether you drive a Ford or a Ferrari, the initial stages of an incident that will cause or prevent only thing keeping you in contact with the a loss of control but what you do in response. road is your tyres, so monitor tread depth • The first thing to do is take your foot off the – which helps expel water from beneath the accelerator and continue to steer your car wheel – and ensure they are correctly inflated. smoothly in the direction of travel. Do this until you feel your tyres gain grip again. • DO NOT brake suddenly as this will make 02 // Slow Down the situation worse. Drive in line with the road conditions by • If you have to brake, do so in gentle pumps. lowering your speed and allow greater Make sure that you don’t lock the wheels, distance between you and the car in front. which could throw your car into a skid (if your car has anti-lock brakes, then you can brake normally). 03 // Be Smooth • Keep the car as straight as possible, don’t Be extra cautious through bends in the road make any unnecessary turns. by steering smoothly and avoiding sudden changes in direction as well as speed.

04 // Following In Their Tracks If possible without getting too close, try to drive in the tyre tracks left by the car in front SURVIVAL TIP: where water has already been removed from Consider renewing your tyres when they have 3mm the road surface and there is more grip. of tread – which can decrease your stopping distance by an extra 8 metres in wet conditions compared

05 // Heed The Signs to the legal minimum of 1.6mm. (Lofty) Pay attention to road signs and heed any warnings. Also think about your surroundings – if driving downhill for example there is an increased risk that pools of water will have formed at the bottom. REMEMBER: Halfords Autocentres offer a free tyre check while you wait. 12 Rain How to ford deep water RAIN // HOW TO FORD DEEP WATER Floods can occur when rivers burst their banks after a thaw or period of heavy rainfall. In urban areas sewers and drains can become blocked meaning there is nowhere for the water to soak away.

Figure 4.1 How to ford deep water Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 13

If you’ve checked the weather forecast before departing then you will be aware of the weather en route to your destination and have considered if a detour is necessary to avoid any potential danger spots like fords and low lying areas.

In unfamiliar areas always pay attention to flood signs and warnings – even if there have been times previously when you’ve seen flood signs and there has been no apparent danger - it may have drained away.

However, even with good planning it is likely If you decide it is safe to cross: that you will encounter a flooded road at some • Let some of the air out of your tyres to reduce point, so remember in normal vehicles you the cars buoyancy. shouldn’t attempt to drive through water • Pass through the flood one vehicle at a time that is more than about 25 centimetres deep and don’t drive through water against (roughly up to the centre of your wheels). approaching vehicles. • Drive in the middle of the road where the To decide whether to cross a flood assess the water is likely to be most shallow. depth of the water: • As you enter the water (slowly) you will create • Observe how any other cars attempting to a ‘bow wave’. cross the flood are doing and use them to judge • Using first or second gear, drive slowly and how deep it is. keep your speed constant – keeping the bow • Use the surrounding landscape to try and wave in front of your car (if you speed up or judge how deep the water is by looking at slow down this could cause water to wash back water levels relative to curbs, traffic signs, into the engine). trees etc. • Don’t change gear because this can cause • If all else fails wade out to measure how deep water to be sucked back up the exhaust. the water is using a pole. • If your wheels start to lose grip partway • Beware of fast flowing water that can make through a flood, the car may be trying to float. you lose your footing. Counter this by opening a door to allow some • Be aware that water can hide potholes and water into the car, this will weigh it down, submerge obstacles in the road. Worse still, enabling the tyres to grip again. there may be no road at all if the flooding has • After driving through a flood apply your washed away the road surface. brakes to dry them out and test they are • If you’re unsure, make a detour, it’s likely to be operational. quicker and safer. SURVIVAL TIP: Normal vehicles shouldn’t attempt to drive through water that is more than about 25 centimetres deep (roughly up to the centre of your wheel). (Lofty) 14 Rain How to escape from a sinking car RAIN // HOW TO ESCAPE FROM A SINKING CAR If you’ve underestimated the depth of a flooded area, attempted to cross and find yourself in difficulty – don’t panic!

Figure 5.1 How to escape from a sinking car Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 15

01 // Assess 05 // Wading If the car is not sinking and the water is not Roll-up trousers – so that they offer less rising, decide whether you are safer staying resistance. Consider taking them off and with the car or attempting to get to dry land. putting them in a plastic bag if they are not Always go for the option which poses the least already wet so you have something dry to risk and only attempt to leave the car if it is change into when you reach safety. feasible and safe to do so (consider factors • Keep shoes on – they will give you better grip such as a current which may increase than bare feet as well as protecting you from the danger). potentially dangerous submerged obstacles. • Turn your body – proceed at a slight angle to the current with your back towards the bank 02 // Path Of Least Resistance you want to reach so that the current helps If you decide to leave the car, always get out you to move in that direction. on the side with least water resistance. • Small steps – do not take strides but shuffle Don’t attempt to open a car door against the using a stick if you have one to test the water flow of moving water which could destabilise ahead and ensure there is a secure footing. the vehicle. 06 // Go Back 03 // Waiting Head towards the point where your vehicle If you elect to remain with the car, stand on entered the water. You don’t know what’s the roof and wait for the water to subside ahead but heading back you will be on familiar (bearing in mind that conditions may change ground. and cars can become buoyant extremely quickly). 07 // Seeking Help If you are in a remote location and help is not 04 // Head For Land immediately at hand, consider the direction If you decide it is safe to try and reach dry you’ve have just come from and whether you land, use whatever materials you have have passed somewhere that could aid you (a available to you to move safely through the pub or petrol station for example). If you have water. A pole or stick is good for added balance not passed anything for miles, then it may be when wading, whilst a tow rope can be used as wiser to assume there is help ahead. a safety line if there is someone on land who can tie it securely.

SURVIVAL TIP: Assess the situation and always risk the least. (Lofty) 16 Ice How to drive in wintery conditions ICE // HOW TO DRIVE IN WINTERY CONDITIONS Driving in winter can be challenging, with studies showing that drivers are six times more likely to have an accident – the numbers rise further when snow and ice pose an extra hazard. So, if weather conditions are badly affecting roads and traffic levels ask yourself if your journey is essential.

Figure 6.1 How to drive in wintery conditions Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 17

Meetings can be rescheduled, technology can enable remote working and walking or public transport is an alternative that should be considered in severe conditions. Don’t contribute to the high volume of traffic or put yourself and others at risk unless you have to.

If you do have to drive, having taken the precautions outlined in the Planning & Preparation section, there are several things you can do to ensure a journey by car is as safe as possible.

• Winter tyres – consider fitting winter tyres • Be smooth – brake, steer and accelerate as that do not harden at low temperatures and smoothly as possible. Stay in a higher gear to provide greater grip on the road. A vehicle minimise the effect of sudden acceleration and fitted with winter tyres will stop on a snow- always try to keep the car in a straight line, covered road (from 30mph) in 35 metres – especially when braking. normal tyres require 43 metres (equivalent to another two car lengths). • Headlights – in falling snow use dipped headlights or foglights to make yourself • Weather conditions – listen to the weather visible to others (including pedestrians). As forecast and traffic updates throughout conditions improve make sure your foglights your journey so you are aware if conditions are only on if necessary as they can dazzle deteriorate and can alter your intended route other drivers. If making any stops en route or turn back. In freezing conditions beware of always check front and rear lights are working rain. This can quickly become black ice, which and clean them before setting off again. lies invisibly on the road. • Stay in the clear – in snow keep within the • Outside temperature – if your car has an tyre tracks of the car in front if you can and on on-board thermometer be aware of any motorways use the clearest lane possible. temperature drops that increase the risk of ice. If you don’t have one, expect ice and drive • Parking safely – try to park on a level surface with caution. if you can, otherwise, park facing downhill so that you can drive away more safely should • Direction of travel – it will be colder on the snow have fallen whilst you are away. west side of hills in the morning and more prone to freezing. A car compass can be useful • Handbrake – If parking on a level surface and for helping to main orientation and identifying if it’s safe to do so (without rolling!), consider any potential danger spots along your route. leaving the car in gear and the handbrake off as salt and ice can cause it to stick or freeze • Braking distance – ice and snow can increase on. your stopping distance by up to ten times, so maintain a sensible distance from the vehicle • Breakdown – if you experience a breakdown in front - particularly when approaching use a warning triangle and your hazard traffic lights, crossroads and junctions where warning lights to make your vehicle visible to compacted snow or ice may have formed. other road users. Don’t prop the bonnet open while you wait for recovery – wet electrics will • Slippery slope – on downhill slopes, reduce make restarting the car more difficult. your speed before you start the descent and don’t let it build up. Stay in a low gear and utilise engine braking to assist you.

• Wind chill – expect sudden wintery gusts in open areas, motorways and when driving over bridges. SURVIVAL TIP: Driving on frozen lakes 400 miles into the Arctic • Watch your speed – accelerate slowly away

from junctions and on snowy roads to prevent Circle gave new meaning to wintery conditions.

the formation of ice under the tyres. Try and In the UK be particularly aware of black ice – which maintain a constant speed – not so fast that isn’t actually black but transparent, hence it’s you risk losing control, but not so slow that you risk losing momentum should you need it notoriety as a driver hazard. (Lofty) (e.g. when approaching a hill). 18 Ice How to avoid a skid ICE // HOW TO AVOID A SKID

Skidding is more likely to occur when there is water, ice or snow on the road. However, it is important to remember that most skids are avoidable. A car will usually only skid if it is being driven at an inappropriate speed for the conditions or provoked by aggressive steering, braking or acceleration.

Figure 7.1 How to avoid a skid Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 19

If you think there is an increased risk of skidding you should:

If, despite your best efforts, the car does begin to 01 // Slow Down skid, remain calm and remember two basic rules: Drive only as quickly as the road conditions permit and allow more time for your journey. 1. Lift your foot off the accelerator and allow engine braking to slow you down smoothly and tyres to regain grip. 02 // Allow More Stopping 2. If your car is front-wheel drive it’s important Distance to keep the wheels in the direction of travel. Ice and snow can increase your stopping However, with a rear-wheel drive car you need distance by up to ten times. to steer into the direction of the skid. (For example, if the rear of the car skids to the left, 03 // Use Smooth Inputs steer quickly and smoothly to the left.) When steering, accelerating and braking keep the movements smooth to remain in control. Take extra care when approaching bends and junctions. SURVIVAL TIP: 04 // Use A High A Gear Be aware of your surroundings – in low grip Driving in a higher gear helps you avoid hard conditions your steering may start to feel lighter acceleration and minimises wheel spin. than usual and tyre noise may decrease. (Lofty) 20 Ice How to avoid slips when walking ICE // HOW TO AVOID SLIPS WHEN WALKING Having considered whether making your journey by car is essential, you may have decided to walk to your intended destination or the nearest public transport. Alternatively you may have begun your journey by car but decided to continue on foot as the conditions have deteriorated.

Figure 8.1 How to avoid slips when walking Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 21

However, navigating streets or country roads on foot in slippery conditions can be equally treacherous if you’re not adequately prepared.

01 // Footwear 04 // See And Be Seen Make sure you are wearing the correct shoes. Carry a torch in case visibility is poor and help Whilst comfortable shoes with a thin sole are motorists see you from further away. good for driving, in snow or ice walking boots or wellies with a good thick sole are best. • Keep a pair in the car with you should you 05 // Stay Together need to abandon it and proceed on foot. Reduce the risk of slips on compacted snow (Many people often nip out for a short and ice by taking short, flat-footed steps. journey in their slippers but consider Spread your body weight as evenly as possible what would happen if you got stuck?) across the soles of your feet and in fresh snow try to walk in someone else’s footsteps (you will also use up less energy). 02 // Warm Clothing • In deeper snow, always walk heel to It might be nice and warm inside but if you toe. Applying your heel first will create need to walk make sure you have a wind and a hole, which helps prevent your foot waterproof jacket – preferably with elasticated slipping forward from beneath you. cuffs and waistband to keep out the elements. • Remember the layer principle, the more air you can trap between your body and clothing the better. • Always remove layers if you begin to become too hot and sweat – because it dries and cools with the same effect as when you are wet. • Remember 30% of heat loss is through the head, so cover your head and ears SURVIVAL TIP: with a scarf and hat. It’s important to maintain your core body temperature as half a degree fluctuation can lead to hyperthermia, so concentrate on protecting your 03 // The Third Leg head, neck and torso. (Lofty) Use a stick or pole for added balance and stability. In ice and snow one with a spike on the bottom is best for providing a sure footing. 22 Snow How to get out of deep snow SNOW // HOW TO GET OUT OF DEEP SNOW

At some point most drivers will find themselves stuck in the snow, either on the road whilst attempting to reach their destination or when they find they are unable to get off their driveway.

Figure 9.1 How to get out of deep snow Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 23

Should you find yourself in this situation: • Place whatever you are using in front of the 01 // Restore Grip front tyres on a front wheel drive car and the Break-up and remove the snow and ice rear tyres on a rear wheel drive car before immediately surrounding the wheels. If you proceeding. have a shovel, you can dig it out. If you don’t • If this doesn’t work you can try sprinkling have one, improvise – a screwdriver from salt, sand, or even cat litter (if the cat doesn’t a toolkit can be used break up the ice that’s mind) in front of the tyres. The salt will help formed beneath tyres, whilst a map book can be to melt ice, whilst the sand and cat litter used to scrape away excess snow. will provide traction. Also, if you have spare screenwash with a low freezing point in your 02 // Direction Of Travel car, that can be used to help melt the snow/ice. Then remove loose snow in the direction the car is about to move – ensuring that it isn’t 05 // Accelerate Gently higher than the ground clearance of the car. Making sure nobody is standing behind the tyres. Sometimes the wheels can turn whatever you put down for traction into an 03 // Low Gear airborne hazard. When moving the car, use as low a gear as possible and keep the front wheels straight to minimise resistance. 06 // Stay On Familiar Ground Once you have freed the car, if you are uncertain whether the route ahead is blocked 04 // The Rougher The Better go back rather than risk the unknown. Go The rougher the surface, the greater the forward on foot first if necessary to determine traction. So, if your wheels start to spin – stop the depth of the snow and whether it is safe and use what is available to you to increase to continue. traction. Specially designed products that you may be carrying, such as snow chains or snow socks come into their own in these situations but if you haven’t got these… • Pieces of sacking are a good substitute or you could use car floor mats or a coat (though SURVIVAL TIP: be aware they may need to be replaced Remember traction is needed at the front wheels if afterwards). In a pinch, you can pull branches your car is front wheel drive car and the rear wheels off trees or bushes at the roadside and lay if it is rear wheel drive in order to make progress. them down for traction. (Lofty) 24 Snow How to recognise & treat hypothermia SNOW // HOW TO RECOGNISE & TREAT HYPOTHERMIA

Figure 10.1 How to recognise & treat hypothermia Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 25

Hypothermia happens when a person’s body temperature drops below 35°C (95°F). Normal body temperature is around 37°C (98.6°F). Everyone reacts differently to the cold, even under the same conditions. Generally, children lose body heat more quickly than adults and thin people lose body heat faster than overweight people.

However, hypothermia can quickly become • Once the person’s body temperature has life threatening and should be treated as a increased, keep them warm and dry until medical emergency. medical assistance arrives. • You can use heating pads to increase core The symptoms of hypothermia vary temperature but DON’T place on hands or feet. depending on how low your body temperature The aim is to increase core temperature so has become. Mild hypothermia isn’t always place under the arms, across the neck and in obvious, symptoms can include: constant the groin area. shivering, tiredness, low energy levels, cold or pale skin, fast breathing (hyperventilation). There are certain things you should not do In more severe cases the person can become when helping someone with hypothermia confused or drowsy, have slurred speech and because it may make their condition worse: a loss of co-ordination.

You should always seek immediate medical Don’t: attention if you suspect someone has • Put a cold person into a hot bath. hypothermia but until help arrives, you can • Massage their limbs. prevent further heat being lost by gently • Give them alcohol to drink (the old advert with warming the patient. the St Bernard dog coming to the rescue with a drink of brandy is the worst thing you can do Do: if someone is hypothermic). • If possible, move the person indoors or Trying to warm someone up with hot water, somewhere warm as soon as possible. massages or giving them alcohol can cause the • Once in a warm environment, carefully blood vessels in the arms and legs to open up remove any wet clothing from the person that (dilate) too quickly. If this happens, it can lead may be contributing to their condition and dry to a fall in blood pressure to the vital organs them thoroughly. such as the brain, heart, lungs and kidneys, • Wrap the person in blankets, towels, coats potentially resulting in cardiac arrest and (whatever you have available), concentrating death. on their head and torso (core) first. • Gently hug them to help warm them. • Encourage the person to shiver if they’re capable of doing so. SURVIVAL TIP: • If possible, give the person warm drinks (not alcohol) or high-energy foods, such as If you/the victim are shivering, feel tired/have

chocolate. However, it’s important to only do low energy levels, are cold or have pale skin and

this if they can swallow normally – ask them fast breathing (hyperventilation) you/they may

to cough to see if they can swallow. If the have mild hypothermia. (Lofty) patient is confused or has been unconscious, don’t give them anything to eat or drink. 26 Snow How to attract attention and raise the alarm SNOW // HOW TO ATTRACT ATTENTION & RAISE THE ALARM

Figure 11.1 How to attract attention & raise the alarm Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 27

If you are unfortunate enough to find yourself stranded due to deep snow or a breakdown your chances of being recovered quickly in busy locations are very good. However, if you happen to be in a remote area there are several things you can do to increase the likelihood you will be found.

01 // Charge Your Mobile Phone 05 // Make Yourself Bigger Your mobile can be a life saver, enabling you Set up a perimeter of distress signs around to call for assistance and receive updates from your vehicle to mark a larger area that recovery/emergency services that may be rescuers can see more easily and use anything looking for you. that reflects for even greater visibility. Remember bright, reflective clothing also 02 // Emergency Power gives you a better chance of being seen. If you have no power or charger try unlocking its reserve power by pressing keys *3370# 06 // Be Seen & Heard which will restart the device showing a 50% Use your headlights and horn to signal you are increase in battery. (Note: This isn’t a feature in distress. Six blasts on the horn, wait five on all models of mobile phone). seconds and repeat and six spaced flashes are the universal signals to use. If possible, position the car so that the 03 // Emergency Signal headlights are pointing slightly up a hill – it If you find yourself outside your service makes you more visible from above. provider’s coverage area and there is an emergency, dial 112 and the mobile will search for any existing network to try and establish 07 // Smoke With Fire a connection for you. In extreme circumstances you can light a fire both for warmth and as a distress signal. During the day you need to create smoke and 04 // Stay With Your Vehicle at night flames are more visible. Assuming it’s safe to do so, always stay with your vehicle. If you’ve let people know where you were going and your intended route, emergency recovery services will know where to search. It’s much easier to find a vehicle but that won’t help if you’ve wandered off. SURVIVAL TIP: In extreme circumstances I have used a spare wheel to create a signal fire because it will burn for at least an hour and create plumes of thick visible smoke (Lofty) 28 General How to survive a traffic jam GENERAL // HOW TO SURVIVE A TRAFFIC JAM

Winter weather can lead to traffic jams - either as a result of accidents or the volume of vehicles using major routes to avoid less well travelled roads that may be flooded or icy.

Figure 12.1 How to survive a traffic jam Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 29

When you find yourself stuck in a jam, be patient. The situation is beyond your control so there is no point in getting stressed. Of course if you’ve followed the golden rule of allowing plenty of time for your journey and built in a contingency you are already better off that those around you.

Clock watching will make the time go very slowly, so use the time to do something productive. Most people claim they never have enough time in the day – so don’t waste it.

Take the view that you’ve unexpectedly been given an extra 30 mins, hour etc. and make the most of it.

01 // Catch Up On Tasks 04// Read-Up Rehearse a speech, practise how you’ll answer For prolonged stationary periods keep a book those interview questions or, if you have hands- in the car. If you’ve forgotten one, read the free calling and a mobile, take a moment to call car’s manual which should be kept in the someone you haven’t spoken to for a while. glovebox and is full of useful advice.

02 // Play Games 05// Laugh Create words or acronyms from other car If you find yourself getting worked up it’s registrations and stay mentally alert whilst a great way of diffusing tension and you pass the time. alleviating stress.

03 // Don’t Lane Hop Changing from lane to lane in an effort to make progress is unlikely to save you any time and increases your risk of being involved in a collision. SURVIVAL TIP:

Breathing exercises can help combat stress, oxygenate the brain and slow everything down. Breathe in through the nose for count of five, hold for five and exhale through the mouth for five. Repeat

until you begin to feel calmer and more in control. (Lofty) 30 General How to give first aid following a collision GENERAL // HOW TO GIVE FIRST AID FOLLOWING A COLLISION The low light conditions and slippery road surfaces of winter can cause accidents. The first few minutes after a collision are critical to minimising injury, so if you have been involved in a collision but are not seriously injured, or witness an accident, the following steps should be followed as quickly and calmly as possible.

Figure 13.1 How to give first aid following a collision Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 31

If you have not had formal training in first aid, 01 // Protect The Scene follow these tips: Always remember safety first – the victim’s and • Remember ABC – Airway, Bleeding, your own. Assess the situation for potential Circulation. No matter how severe the injuries threats and once you have established it is appear to be, establishing and maintaining an safe; concentrate on preventing further injury. airway is the most important thing. If there has been a fuel spillage, make sure the ignition of any damaged vehicle is turned • Clear airways – if the person is unconscious, off and any cigarettes or naked flames are be sure his or her air passages are clear. False extinguished. teeth, chewing gum, vomit or mucus can block  Use warning triangles to warn approaching air passages. traffic or by delegating two people to signal at each end of the collision scene. Turn on the • Artificial respiration – if the person is not hazard lights of all undamaged vehicles at breathing and you are familiar with mouth- the scene. This is particularly critical during to-mouth or artificial respiration, begin the darkness or at times of reduced visibility procedure immediately. when the risk of subsequent collisions is very high. Your aim is to prevent the situation from • Stop any bleeding – apply direct pressure deteriorating until professional help arrives. over the wound. A bandage from a first aid kit or clean handkerchief could be used. Avoid using tissue paper or other material that could 02 // Check All Injuries contaminate a wound. If there is a depressed Once the scene is secure, make an initial skull fracture, pressure should not be applied. survey of damage, checking for hidden

victims. Administer first aid to the injured in • Support head and spine – if a person is pinned order of priority. Injured persons should be in a car or by a car, do not attempt to move moved only if they are in danger of drowning, them but support these vital areas. suffocating, burning or being electrocuted. If possible, always remove the danger from the patient rather than the other way around to minimise the chances of further injury. SURVIVAL TIP: No matter how severe the injuries appear to be

maintaining the injured person’s airway is the most important thing. (Lofty) 32 General How to sleep in your car GENERAL // HOW TO SLEEP IN YOUR CAR

Winter weather has forced many stranded motorists to spend the night in their car – even on a crowded snow-bound motorway. Fortunately these occurrences are rare but if you do break down or fall victim to particularly bad weather, your comfort – perhaps even survival – depends on how you react.

Figure 14.1 How to sleep in your car Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 33

Assuming an alternative source of shelter isn’t available, always stay in the car as it offers the best protection from rain, wind and snow.

Hopefully you have packed some emergency supplies (as outlined in the Planning & Preparation section) which will make following these basic guidelines easier but with some ingenuity even an unprepared driver can attempt most of them:

01 // Run The Engine 05 // Keep Eating If your car starts and has fuel, use it for heat. Shivering burns calories leading to the release Cover the bonnet so that as little heat as of energy so replace them by taking warm possible is wasted – but always make sure that drinks and eating high calorie foods such as the exhaust is clear. Note: DO NOT go to sleep chocolate or nuts (though any spare sugary with the engine running. food in the glovebox will do).

02 // Switch Off 06 // Stay Together When the engine has taken the chill off the If you have passengers share body heat interior, turn it off. Start it again when the by cosying-up under a blanket to maximise temperature drops to maximise your fuel. heat use and minimise losses.

03 // Wrap-Up If there’s no fuel or the engine won’t start, wrap up in anything you can find – spare clothing, rugs, car seat covers and even scrunched-up paper can be used to insulate you and retain body heat. SURVIVAL TIP: 04 // Create A Barrier When I was stationed in the Norway, if we broke Between yourself and the glass - which soaks down the advice was to get out of the vehicle;

heat from the car interior - using paper, maps, as the temperature inside a metal armoured truck car mats, anything you can find. is actually several degrees lower than outside. However, in the UK stay inside your car which

is much better insulated. (Lofty) 34 General How to survive Christmas with the in-laws GENERAL // HOW TO SURVIVE CHRISTMAS WITH THE IN-LAWS Winter hazards can take many forms and many a motorist has slipped-up as a result of an icy encounter with their mother or father in-law during the festive season.

Figure 15.1 How to survive Christmas with the In-Laws Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 35

Here we share some advice on how to safely navigate a Christmas visit from the in-laws!

• Go with the flow – don’t expect the perfect If you have no safe haven in which to shelter from the day. Find something to be grateful for, even if turkey, tinsel and tantrums – build one! it’s only another Christmas jumper or pair of socks. Remember, things going wrong often • Shelter – Depending on how long you intend makes the day more memorable. to stay, you can create anything from a simple windbreak to something reminiscent • Avoid confrontation – if you find yourself of a rustic holiday home. in a confrontational situation keep calm and communicate. Maintain eye contact, but avoid • If you have suitable weatherproof sheeting antagonistic glaring and take a more passive available, a tepee is extremely easy to erect. stance which will help diffuse the situation. Take three or more support poles and tie them at the top where they cross to form a • Reduce their ammunition – it may not be cone shape. Place the covering over the top, easy in the face of their thinly veiled criticism making sure you leave a small opening for of your cooking/DIY skills, but try flattering ventilation. (Wider angles will give a greater them or giving them a compliment (even if you area of protection but shed rain less easily). are being sarcastic) and watch them soften. • Alternatively consider a lean-to type • Use distraction – if you’re being subjected to structure. Erect a horizontal cross piece a dressing down, keep looking at the person’s (ridge) between two trees or on simple left ear. It will unnerve them and make them tripod supports. If you have no weatherproof think something is wrong, especially if you sheeting, tie or lean evergreen tree branches start frowning. (such as conifers) at a 45 degree angle to the cross-piece. Finish the shelter by adding • Turn it into a game – if you think the person an additional pole across the entrance, will respond positively to some provocative approximately 2 feet below the cross bar to banter, try saying things to deliberately get provide extra support for the roofing. Build them embroiled in a debate. Try a change of a fire as close to the lean-to entrance as it is topic – politics is usually an emotive one! safe to do so to provide heat.

• Outgunned – recognise when you’re faced • For blocking a shelter’s opening or reflecting with a superior force and if necessary make a heat back from behind a fire, construct a tactical retreat to the garage or garden shed. wall by piling sticks between upright poles driven into the ground and if possible tied at the top. Pack them well with earth to improve insulation.

THE PSYCHOLOGIST’S VIEW: • If there has been heavy snowfall, a snow Concentrate on your own behaviour which you can trench is a much quicker shelter to construct than trying to build in snow above ground. change, not your relatives’ behaviour which you Mark out an area the size of a sleeping bag can’t. You’d miss your relatives if they weren’t there and cut out blocks the whole width of the even if they can be annoying at times so, try to stay trench to make snow bricks. Dig down to a depth of at least 60cm (2ft). calm and make the most of them. (Dr Geoff Rolls) Along the top of the sides of the trench cut a ledge about 15cm (6in wide) and the same deep. Rest the snow bricks on each side of the ledge and lean them in against each other to form a roof. SURVIVAL TIP: When faced with a hostile enemy; stay calm, use distraction techniques and remember, they will go home eventually. (Lofty) 36 John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman Biography JOHN ‘LOFTY’ WISEMAN // BIOGRAPHY

John “Lofty” Wiseman served for 26 years with the Special Air Service and was their Chief Survival Instructor. He remains the foremost authority on SAS training techniques for civilians and is the author of numerous publications including SAS Survival Handbook, SAS Survival Guide, City Survival, and Outdoor Survival. It would be difficult to believe that there is a serious survival training specialist in the world today who hasn’t read and learned from The SAS Survival Handbook: How to Survive in the Wild, in Any Climate, on Land or at Sea. Currently in its 3rd Edition (2009), first published in 1986, translated into 18 different languages, having sold over 2 million copies, it remains undoubtedly the seminal work on survival available today.

John “Lofty” Wiseman joined the Parachute Regiment in 1958. He applied for service with the Special Air Service Regiment in 1959 and set a record as the youngest person ever to pass selection at the age of 18. Lofty served with 22 SAS for 26 years (and, as he likes to point out, 55 days)! He saw active service worldwide, in every theatre of operations and special operations required of the British Army between 1959 and 1985. Amongst other things, Lofty was Sergeant Major, B Squadron (Sabre Sqn) 22 SAS, Sergeant Major 22 SAS Training Wing, Head of Operational Research 22 SAS, set up the SP Team (Counter Hi-Jack), and trained the first members of the US Green Berets to return to the USA to form the famous Delta Force (US Special Forces). Lofty also ran the famed SAS Selection Course, deciding who was fit to join the Regiment.

After retiring from the army, Lofty set up the School of Survival at Hereford, specialising in all aspects of survival training including wilderness, urban and corporate survival. Lofty is also an advisor at the Trueways Survival School at Hereford, training survival instructors and consultants, expedition members, overseas survival training specialists, military and civilians. Halfords Autocentres Winter Survival Guide 37

Compiled in association with Trueways Survival (The UK’s No.1 Survival Training School) & John “Lofty” Wiseman

UK Wide Woodland, Urban, Coastal & Medical Survival Courses Book your course here www.TruewaysSurvival.com or Call 0800 043 0832 10% DISCOUNT Use voucher code HALFORDS for a 10% discount

(offer valid for bookings made up to 31st March 2014). 38

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