Latest news with #AliceSimpson
Wales Online
4 days ago
- Automotive
- Wales Online
Five things you should have in your car during heatwave according to experts
Five things you should have in your car during heatwave according to experts It comes as the Met Office has forecast temperatures of up to 33°C in Wales The RAC has revealed the top five things you should have in your car when driving during a heatwave. It comes as the Met Office has forecast temperatures of up to 33°C in Wales this weekend. The breakdown and insurance specialists say that soaring temperatures are causing an significant increase in vehicle breakdowns with 20% more failures than usual for this time of year reported. The RAC says that the combination of extreme heat and drivers making the most of the summer weather over the weekend will put further strain on cars and vans making breakdowns more likely. And it says you should have the following five items in your car to make sure you are prepared for all eventualities. Emergency breakdown kit The RAC says: "Ensure you're always prepared for a breakdown by having an emergency kit in your vehicle. This should include a first aid kit, hi-vis vests (for the driver and all of the passengers), and a warning triangle." Cold drinks "Pack lots of water and soft drinks," the RAC advises. Article continues below "Driving in hot weather can also result in dehydration, which affects your concentration levels and coordination." Phone charger and power bank The RAC says: "If your car breakdowns you'll need your phone to call for help. Keep a spare phone charger in your vehicle. Many modern cars have USB sockets, which allows you to charge your phone while on the move." Sunscreen The RAC writes: "Protect yourself from sunburn by packing sunscreen. If you are driving with the windows open or own an open-top car then you can easily become burnt in the summer sun." Cooler bag/box "Keep your drinks and snacks cool by packing an insulated bag or box," the RAC advises. "This will prevent your drinks and snacks from perishing in the heat." RAC breakdown spokeswoman Alice Simpson said: 'We're seeing a surge in breakdowns as this latest period of hot weather takes hold with up to 20% more vehicles failing than expected at this point in July. 'With above-average temperatures in many parts expected for the foreseeable future very high volumes of breakdowns will persist through this coming weekend and well into next week. 'Our teams are working incredibly hard to help thousands of stranded drivers every day but waiting times are longer as a result. 'Drivers should do whatever they can to avoid their vehicles letting them down in these conditions – oil and coolant levels, as well as tyres, must be checked before journeys are made. 'If anything isn't right get the problem diagnosed by a mobile mechanic or reputable garage rather than running the risk of driving. Taking plenty of breaks on long journeys, to give themselves and their cars a rest, is also important. 'Staying safe in the heat, especially if a breakdown is unavoidable, should be in the mind of every driver. 'Carrying plenty of water for all passengers is a must as is keeping sunscreen and a sun hat or even umbrella to hand to reduce the ferocity of the sun. When waiting for assistance look for a safe location in the shade and well away from moving traffic." Article continues below
Scottish Sun
6 days ago
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
Drivers need to do three checks before using their car during hot weather, RAC says
Read on for some breakdown survial tips to keep you safe and cool if your car lets you down in the heat HOT WHEELS Drivers need to do three checks before using their car during hot weather, RAC says DRIVERS are being urged to carry out three vital checks before hitting the road in scorching weather. As UK temperatures soar, motoring experts say failing to prep your car properly could leave you stranded in the heat. 3 The UK heatwave means breakdown rescue wait times are soaring Credit: Getty 3 Three simple checks can prevent you from breaking down in the sweltering heat Credit: Getty Breakdowns are already on the rise - leaving thousands of drivers are being left stranded every day. And with the heatwave chaos, rescue wait times are soaring. Experts are warning Brits to act now before hitting the road and say a few simple checks could save your motor - and your wallet - from a summer meltdown. RAC breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson said: 'We're seeing a surge in breakdowns as this latest period of hot weather takes hold, with up to 20% more vehicles failing than expected at this point in July. "With above-average temperatures in many parts expected for the foreseeable future, very high volumes of breakdowns will persist through this coming weekend and well into next week. "Our teams are working incredibly hard to help thousands of stranded drivers every day, but waiting times are longer as a result." What to check? Drivers are being urged to check oil and coolant levels, as well as tyre pressure and tread, before setting off. And if you spot a problem, don't risk it - get it looked at by a mechanic or trusted garage before heading out, or you could end up broken down on the hard shoulder in blistering heat. Alice continued: 'Drivers should do whatever they can to avoid their vehicles letting them down in these conditions - oil and coolant levels, as well as tyres, must be checked before journeys are made. "If anything isn't right, get the problem diagnosed by a mobile mechanic or reputable garage, rather than running the risk of driving. Six items every UK driver should remove from cars this weekend "Taking plenty of breaks on long journeys, to give themselves and their cars a rest, is also important." Breakdown Survival Tips Motorists are also being told to prepare for the worst - just in case the car does conk out. Always carry plenty of drinking water, especially if you're travelling with kids or pets, and don't forget sun cream, a sun hat, and even an umbrella to provide shade while you wait for help. Experts say if you do break down, it's vital to get out safely and seek shade where possible - as sitting in a sweltering vehicle can be just as dangerous as being stuck outside. Alice added: 'Staying safe in the heat, especially if a breakdown is unavoidable, should be in the mind of every driver. "Carrying plenty of water for all passengers is a must, as is keeping sunscreen and a sun hat or even umbrella to hand to reduce the ferocity of the sun. "When waiting for assistance, look for a safe location in the shade and well away from moving traffic." 3 Always carry plenty of drinking water and sun cream Credit: Getty
The Irish Sun
6 days ago
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Drivers need to do three checks before using their car during hot weather, RAC says
DRIVERS are being urged to carry out three vital checks before hitting the road in scorching weather. As UK temperatures soar, motoring experts say failing to prep your car properly could leave you stranded in the heat. 3 The UK heatwave means breakdown rescue wait times are soaring Credit: Getty 3 Three simple checks can prevent you from breaking down in the sweltering heat Credit: Getty Breakdowns are already on the rise - leaving thousands of drivers are being left stranded every day. And with the heatwave chaos, rescue wait times are soaring. Experts are warning Brits to act now before hitting the road and say a few simple checks could save your motor - and your wallet - from a summer meltdown. RAC breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson said: 'We're seeing a surge in breakdowns as this latest period of hot weather takes hold, with up to 20% more vehicles failing than expected at this point in July. more on cars "With above-average temperatures in many parts expected for the foreseeable future, very high volumes of breakdowns will persist through this coming weekend and well into next week. "Our teams are working incredibly hard to help thousands of stranded drivers every day, but waiting times are longer as a result." What to check? Drivers are being urged to check oil and coolant levels, as well as tyre pressure and tread, before setting off. And if you spot a problem, don't risk it - get it looked at by a mechanic or trusted garage before heading out, or you could end up broken down on the hard shoulder in blistering heat. Most read in Motors Alice continued: 'Drivers should do whatever they can to avoid their vehicles letting them down in these conditions - oil and coolant levels, as well as tyres, must be checked before journeys are made. "If anything isn't right, get the problem diagnosed by a mobile mechanic or reputable garage, rather than running the risk of driving. Six items every UK driver should remove from cars this weekend "Taking plenty of breaks on long journeys, to give themselves and their cars a rest, is also important." Breakdown Survival Tips Motorists are also being told to prepare for the worst - just in case the car does conk out. Always carry plenty of drinking water, especially if you're travelling with kids or pets, and don't forget sun cream, a sun hat, and even an umbrella to provide shade while you wait for help. Experts say if you do break down, it's vital to get out safely and seek shade where possible - as sitting in a sweltering vehicle can be just as dangerous as being stuck outside. Alice added: 'Staying safe in the heat, especially if a breakdown is unavoidable, should be in the mind of every driver. "Carrying plenty of water for all passengers is a must, as is keeping sunscreen and a sun hat or even umbrella to hand to reduce the ferocity of the sun. "When waiting for assistance, look for a safe location in the shade and well away from moving traffic." 3 Always carry plenty of drinking water and sun cream Credit: Getty Find Your Next Car by What You Can Actually Afford Sun Motors has created the UK's First Finance-First Marketplace * Finance Powered by DSG Finance who are a Credit Broker Not A Lender. Representative 12.9%. Your rate may differ depending on individual circumstances You can check in less than 60 seconds if you are eligible for financing, and then search for your dream used car within your monthly budget. Here's how... Soft credit check , with no impact on your score 60-second decision , get a real finance decision in less than a minute Instant match , only see cars that fit your real budget AI-powered help , get tailored advice, suggestions, and instant answers from an AI advisor called Theo Find out what you can afford in just 60 seconds
The Sun
6 days ago
- Automotive
- The Sun
Drivers need to do three checks before using their car during hot weather, RAC says
DRIVERS are being urged to carry out three vital checks before hitting the road in scorching weather. As UK temperatures soar, motoring experts say failing to prep your car properly could leave you stranded in the heat. 3 3 Breakdowns are already on the rise - leaving thousands of drivers are being left stranded every day. And with the heatwave chaos, rescue wait times are soaring. Experts are warning Brits to act now before hitting the road and say a few simple checks could save your motor - and your wallet - from a summer meltdown. RAC breakdown spokesperson Alice Simpson said: 'We're seeing a surge in breakdowns as this latest period of hot weather takes hold, with up to 20% more vehicles failing than expected at this point in July. "With above-average temperatures in many parts expected for the foreseeable future, very high volumes of breakdowns will persist through this coming weekend and well into next week. "Our teams are working incredibly hard to help thousands of stranded drivers every day, but waiting times are longer as a result." What to check? Drivers are being urged to check oil and coolant levels, as well as tyre pressure and tread, before setting off. And if you spot a problem, don't risk it - get it looked at by a mechanic or trusted garage before heading out, or you could end up broken down on the hard shoulder in blistering heat. Alice continued: 'Drivers should do whatever they can to avoid their vehicles letting them down in these conditions - oil and coolant levels, as well as tyres, must be checked before journeys are made. "If anything isn't right, get the problem diagnosed by a mobile mechanic or reputable garage, rather than running the risk of driving. "Taking plenty of breaks on long journeys, to give themselves and their cars a rest, is also important." Breakdown Survival Tips Motorists are also being told to prepare for the worst - just in case the car does conk out. Always carry plenty of drinking water, especially if you're travelling with kids or pets, and don't forget sun cream, a sun hat, and even an umbrella to provide shade while you wait for help. Experts say if you do break down, it's vital to get out safely and seek shade where possible - as sitting in a sweltering vehicle can be just as dangerous as being stuck outside. Alice added: 'Staying safe in the heat, especially if a breakdown is unavoidable, should be in the mind of every driver. "Carrying plenty of water for all passengers is a must, as is keeping sunscreen and a sun hat or even umbrella to hand to reduce the ferocity of the sun. "When waiting for assistance, look for a safe location in the shade and well away from moving traffic." 3 Find Your Next Car by What You Can Actually Afford Sun Motors has created the UK's First Finance-First Marketplace * Finance Powered by DSG Finance who are a Credit Broker Not A Lender. Representative 12.9%. Your rate may differ depending on individual circumstances You can check in less than 60 seconds if you are eligible for financing, and then search for your dream used car within your monthly budget. Here's how... Soft credit check, with no impact on your score 60-second decision, get a real finance decision in less than a minute Instant match, only see cars that fit your real budget AI-powered help, get tailored advice, suggestions, and instant answers from an AI advisor called Theo
ITV News
13-06-2025
- Climate
- ITV News
Met Office issues 'danger to life' thunderstorm warnings in several regions
Britons have been warned to expect flooding and power cuts this weekend after the Met Office issued thunderstorm warnings covering several parts of the country. The forecasting body announced thunderstorms were 'pushing into' the English Channel ahead of an amber weather warning for severe thunderstorms on the South East coast. The amber alert, which came into force from 8pm on Friday, covers parts of East Anglia and eastern parts of East Sussex and Kent, and runs until 5am on Saturday. It advises of the risk of torrential rain, large hail, frequent lightning and gusty winds, adding: "Fast flowing or deep floodwater is likely, causing danger to life." A yellow thunderstorm warning is in place until 11.59pm covering southwestern England and Wales while a further yellow alert comes into effect at 7pm lasting until 6am on Saturday for East Anglia and the south east of England. The forecaster says the storms could lead to road flooding, difficult driving conditions, power cuts and flooding of homes and businesses. 'Initially, during the evening, it's dry towards the South East but we'll be watching developments over northern France very closely because that's where these thunderstorms are likely to develop and drift northeastwards,' Met Office meteorologist Aidan McGivern said.'The signals are that it's across East Anglia and the far south east of England – so Kent, Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk – where we're likely to see the greatest risk of impacts from the torrential rain, large hail – 1-2cm in diameter – frequent lightning and gusty winds, 50mph wind gusts, perhaps more with some of the most lively thunderstorms.' RAC breakdown spokeswoman Alice Simpson said: 'Amber weather warnings must be taken seriously by drivers. Strong winds increase the chance of trees and powerlines falling and this combined with torrential rain over a short period can make driving much more challenging.'Anyone not confident driving in the conditions may wish to postpone their journeys until the stormy weather passes.' Katharine Smith, flood duty manager at the Environment Agency, said: 'Forecast heavy rain and thunderstorms today mean there is a risk of significant and localised surface water flooding impacts in parts of England, including the East and South East on Friday with impacts probable into early Saturday.'Environment Agency teams have ensured rivers and watercourses are clear ahead of the storms and stand ready to support local authorities in their response to surface water flooding.'We urge people not to drive through flood water as just 30cm of flowing water is enough to move your car.'People should check their flood risk, sign up for free flood warnings and keep up to date with the latest situation by searching 'check my flood risk', and follow @EnvAgency on X for the latest flood updates.' It comes after the UK recorded its warmest day of the year so far as temperatures hit 29.4C. Santon Downham, in West Suffolk, enjoyed the hottest weather on Friday, just breaking the previous record for 2025 which stood at 29.3C, recorded on May 1 in Kew Gardens, west also experienced its hottest day of the year so far as temperatures in Lossiemouth hit 25.7C. For mid-June, the forecasting body said it would expect maximum temperatures in the UK to be between 16-18C across the north and between 18-20C across the south. Mr McGivern said the heat and humidity on Friday could spark 'very severe weather' overnight.
