As an Arctic blast tightens its grip on the UK, bringing plummeting temperatures and widespread snowfall, drivers are facing a familiar winter battle: frozen vehicles. With thousands still needing to travel, the search for quick fixes is on, especially for those caught without traditional de-icer.
The Unlikely De-icing Hero in Your Pocket
According to motoring expert Ben Welham from Cinch, a simple item most people carry can be a lifesaver for frozen car locks. The surprising solution? Hand sanitiser. Speaking to the Express, Welham explained that the alcohol content in the gel makes it an effective alternative for thawing iced-up door mechanisms.
"This hack works surprisingly well," Welham stated. "The alcohol content of hand sanitiser does the job nicely, so it's a brilliant backup if you run out of de-icer on a cold day." The method involves applying a small amount of sanitiser directly to the key and the lock, where the alcohol helps to melt the ice rapidly, granting access without damage.
Official Warnings as Cold Spell Bites
This handy tip comes as the Met Office has issued serious warnings for the ongoing cold snap. Chief forecaster Neil Armstrong cautioned that the severe conditions are set to persist. "With Arctic air now covering most of the UK very cold weather will continue through the weekend," he warned, noting the potential for "minus double figures overnight" and daytime temperatures struggling above 0°C for many.
Armstrong emphasised that this cold spell could last well into next week, with further weather warnings likely. He urged the public to stay updated with forecasts and plan journeys carefully. In line with this, the Met Office advises drivers to carry essential items in their vehicles, including an in-car phone charger, before setting out.
Expert Advice for Safe Winter Travel
The warnings are echoed by transport officials across the nation. George Fiddes from Transport Scotland advised motorists in areas under yellow warnings to "plan your journey, leave extra time if needed and drive to the conditions."
Beyond the lock hack, experts also point to built-in vehicle features to combat the freeze. Many modern cars have a dedicated defrosting button for windscreens, which can be a 'magic' solution for clearing icy glass quickly and safely.
As Britain endures this bitter weather, combining these practical winter driving tips with official guidance is key to staying safe on the roads. From a humble bottle of hand sanitiser to your car's own technology, being prepared can make all the difference when the temperature drops.
