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Car
Safety Checks
Doing basic safety checks
on a car is essential. Although having a car serviced regularly
will ensure good overall reliability it should not be the only time
the car is checked over – part of this is your responsibility.
In the winter months it
is more important than ever to ensure you keep an eye on your car.
Roadworthiness
check
Before driving a car it
is worth doing a POWDER check. This is essential
if it’s an unfamiliar car or you intend to go on a long journey.
P
– Petrol, make sure you have enough for your journey.
O
– Oil, ensure you have enough. Checking is simple, just look
for the dipstick under the bonnet. Check brake fluid levels too.
If unsure where these are ask someone or consult your car manual.
W – Water, make sure you
are not running too low and that you have sufficient coolant
concentration.
D – Damage, checking for
damage especially if it’s a hire car is important, as you
should report this before driving to make sure you are not liable.
Also look for things that could be a hazard to you such as damaged
windscreen wipers.
E – Electrics, make sure
all the lights and indicators work and the horn works.
R – Rubber, do a quick
visual check to make sure there is sufficient grip (no less than
1.6mm of tread) and that the tyres are in no way damaged (cuts and
bulges); remember to check the tyre pressures.
Also check the condition of windscreen wiper blades.
Pre-driving
checks
Every time you get into
an unfamiliar vehicle you should do the following checks:
Adjust seat
Adjust mirrors
Number of
gears, find position of reverse gear
Handbrake
and foot brake respond firmly – do a rolling brake check
Position
of controls and auxiliaries
Identify
driving aids, ABS, traction control etc.
Check seat
belt – make sure it’s not frayed, ensure it locks
Check gauges
and warning lights
Doors are
securely closed
Size and
power of engine
All glass
clean – inside and out
Fan belt
in good working order
Check horn
works.
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