GWENT POLICE WARNING - BOTH SEVERN BRIDGES CLOSED

PR8912009 - Published: 06/02/2009

The decision was made following multi agency consultations which involved the Highways Agency,  Avon & Somerset Police and the bridge operators.

Gwent Police is now in the process of organising diversionary routes and all motorists are asked to avoid the eastbound M4 in South East Wales if possible. Motorists who are forced to divert should bear in mind that their journeys will take considerably longer and advised to take extra care in response to the snow and icy weather conditions which continue to affect large parts of Gwent.

Gwent Police are expecting the results of safety assessments to both bridges to at around midday and will update media at that time.

Superintendent Russell said:
"'We urge all motorists to consider whether their journey is essential and we would ask that motorists avoid the eastbound M4 in South East Wales if possible. Those who are already on the M4 should expect to be diverted. If your journey is absolutely necessary please heed the following advice"

- Don’t leave your car running unattended when defrosting it.
- Make sure you have sufficient fuel for your journey. Keep the fuel tank topped up.
- Check weather forecasts. Listen to local and national radio for travel information
- Give yourself extra time for your journey and drive at a constant speed. Accept your journey will take longer and don't take risks.
- Take a mobile telephone with you and make sure it is fully charged. Carry a mobile charger in the car.
- Poor weather conditions mean it can be harder for drivers to see pedestrians and cyclists, so be vigilant. In poor visibility be extra alert for hazards, and allow extra room to slow down and stop
- Wear comfortable shoes, not thick boots, which can be difficult to drive in. Keep warm clothing and footwear in the car in case you get stuck or need to get out of the car, and carry a thermos flask and high energy snacks such as chocolate so you can have a hot drink and something to eat.
- Make sure all your car lights are working and you have no failed bulbs. Ensure that dirt, salt and snow is cleared away from light fixtures.
- Always ensure all windows are fully cleared of snow, frost and condensation before setting off on a journey. It is illegal to drive with obscured vision.
- Clear snow from the top of the car as this can fall down and obscure your windscreen while you are driving.
- Keep windscreen washer fluid topped up as windscreens quickly become dirty from traffic spray and salt from the roads.
- If you get stuck stay with your car, but in an emergency if do need to leave it, park it out of the main traffic route, where it won't cause an obstruction when conditions ease. Leave a contact number on the inside of the windscreen and return to your car at the first opportunity you have.