ROAD recovery group RAC has experienced one of its busiest days in its 112-year history.

Simon Tomlinson

ROAD recovery group RAC has experienced one of its busiest days in its 112-year history.

The organisation's patrols attended more than 15,000 breakdowns yesterday - and today is expected to be just as hectic.

Since the UK was hit with extreme winter weather over two weeks ago, RAC has attended nearly 160,000 breakdowns.

The group is advising motorists not to travel unless it is absolutely necessary.

Prakesh Patel, RAC patrol ambassador of the year, said: “Motorists should ensure they allow plenty of time to reach their destination safe and sound.

“Where possible drivers should keep to the main roads that will have been gritted, make sure they take plenty of warm clothing, hot drinks and food and a fully charged mobile phone in case of breakdown.”

Before departing, drivers should check local traffic and weather reports for their planned route and heed any police advice about whether or not to travel.

Motorists who are planning to travel will benefit from carrying out some basic maintenance before setting out. To help motorists avoid a breakdown, RAC has put together the following advice:

Tips For Winter Driving

� If the forecast or conditions are bad, only drive if it is absolutely necessary

� When you're on the road, leave at least a three-second gap between you and the car in front

� Check local traffic and weather reports for their planned route

� On long journeys keep you car well-ventilated to prevent drowsiness - and take regular breaks

� Plan your journey in advance and check for diversions or closures

� Keep an up-to-date roadmap in the car

� Let friends or family know where you are travelling and when you expect to arrive

� Keep a fully-charged mobile phone with you in case of breakdown

� Wrap up warm and take a blanket, waterproof clothing, sensible footwear and a fully charged mobile phone in case of breakdown

� If you begin to skid, turn into the skid to correct it

Before heading off, RAC advises motorists to make the following checks on your vehicle:

� Check tyre pressure (spare tyre too!), tread depth and oil level

� Check all lights are working correctly and remember to keep them clean

� Check front and rear wiper blades for wear or splitting

� Screen wash additive should be added to prevent freezing

� Make sure you have enough fuel for your journey

� Check anti-freeze should be added to your vehicles cooling system in line with the manufacturers specification

� Before setting out on a journey, remove ice and snow from your vehicles windows and lights. Do not drive with a small hole cut through the ice on your windscreen. The Highway Code states that it is illegal to drive with poor visibility. Ensure you demist the windows properly before you drive off

� Do not use hot water from a kettle to clear your windows, as this may crack the glass

� Carry a key de-icer with you to unfreeze frozen locks

In case of a breakdown, call RAC's helpline on 0800 82 82 82.