Driving conditions are due to be poor over the next couple of days, with a weather warning in place for ice.

The RAC has released tips on how to stay safe while driving in slippery conditions.

How to drive on icy roads Anticipation and smoothness are key for driving on icy roads.

Look well ahead for potential hazards – including, of course, patches of ice – and keep your speed well down.

Accelerate, brake, steer and change gear as smoothly as possible to reduce the risk of a skid.

A higher gear may be more appropriate to aid grip on packed ice.

This helps manage engine power delivery, making it easier to find traction. If it’s a manual, you might need to slip the clutch a little to prevent the car from stalling.  Many automatics will let you select second gear at a standstill to pull away in.

Braking distances can increase tenfold on ice compared with a dry road so you should leave up to 10 times the normal recommended gap between you and the car in front.

If you hit a patch of black ice, don’t panic. Keep the steering wheel straight and maintain your speed – don’t hit the brakes. Use the gears to slow down if necessary, but avoid any sudden movements that could destabilise the car.

If you do encounter a skid, steer gently into it. For example, if the rear of the car is sliding to the right, steer to the right. As above, do not take your hands off the steering wheel or brake hard.

For more tips, click here