Pre-Journey Safety Checks
Essential pre-journey safety checks using the POWDERY method. Quick 5-minute checks that could save your life.
Why Pre-Journey Checks Matter
Quick safety checks before driving can prevent breakdowns, accidents, and save lives. They're especially important before long journeys, but good to do weekly for regular driving.
The POWDERY Checklist
Remember POWDERY - a simple acronym covering all essential checks:
P - Petrol (Fuel)
Check: Do you have enough fuel for your journey?
- Don't rely on fuel gauge alone - check before setting off
- Plan refueling stops on long journeys
- Fuel warning light comes on with about 30-50 miles remaining
- Running out of fuel is illegal on motorways
💡 Diesel drivers: Running tank to empty can damage fuel pump (£££ repair)
O - Oil
Check: Engine oil level
- Park on level ground, wait 5 mins after engine off
- Pull dipstick out, wipe clean, reinsert fully, pull out again
- Oil should be between MIN and MAX marks
- Top up if low - check your handbook for correct oil type
⚠️ Driving with low oil can destroy your engine in minutes
W - Water (Coolant & Washer Fluid)
Check two fluids:
1. Engine Coolant:
- Check level in expansion tank (translucent plastic bottle)
- Should be between MIN and MAX marks
- Only check when engine is COLD
- Never remove cap when hot - can cause serious burns
2. Screen Wash:
- Keep topped up with screenwash mixture
- Use winter formula in cold weather to prevent freezing
- Essential for visibility in poor weather
D - Damage
Check: Walk around the car looking for damage
- Look for new dents, scratches, or damage
- Check for flat tyres or obvious deflation
- Look under car for leaks or hanging parts
- Check mirrors are intact and properly positioned
- Ensure number plates are secure and readable
E - Electrics (Lights)
Check: All lights work correctly
- Headlights (dipped and main beam)
- Brake lights (use reflection or get someone to help)
- Indicators (all four corners)
- Hazard lights
- Rear lights and fog lights
- Number plate light
⚠️ Driving with failed lights is illegal and unsafe, especially at night
R - Rubber (Tyres)
Check: Tyre condition and pressures
- Tread depth: Minimum 1.6mm (use 20p test - if outer band visible, too worn)
- Pressure: Check when tyres are cold. Correct pressure in handbook/door sticker
- Damage: Look for cuts, bulges, or objects stuck in tread
- Wear: Uneven wear suggests alignment or suspension problems
- Don't forget spare: Check it's inflated if you have one
⚠️ Under/over-inflated tyres reduce grip and increase stopping distances
Y - You (The Driver)
Check: Are YOU safe to drive?
- Alertness: Well rested? Not drowsy or distracted?
- Health: Not unwell or on medication that affects driving?
- Alcohol/drugs: Completely sober? (alcohol can remain in system 12+ hours)
- Vision: Can you see clearly? Glasses if needed?
- Stress: Calm and focused? Not emotional or angry?
- Plan breaks: Every 2 hours or 100 miles on long journeys
⚠️ Tiredness kills - pull over if you feel drowsy
Quick Reference: POWDERY
| Letter | Check | Key Point |
|---|---|---|
| P | Petrol | Enough fuel for journey? |
| O | Oil | Between MIN & MAX on dipstick |
| W | Water | Coolant & screen wash topped up |
| D | Damage | Walk around - spot new issues |
| E | Electrics | All lights working |
| R | Rubber | Tyres: pressure, tread, condition |
| Y | You | Fit, alert, and safe to drive |
Extra Checks Before Long Journeys
- Plan your route: Check for roadworks, closures, traffic
- Check weather forecast: Prepare for conditions
- Emergency kit: Warning triangle, first aid, phone charger, blanket
- Breakdown cover: Check it's active and you have contact numbers
- Load correctly: Heavy items low and secure, don't overload
- Adjust tyre pressures: Increase if carrying heavy load (check handbook)
💡 Top Tips
- • Make checks part of your routine - takes 5 minutes but prevents hours of delays
- • Do POWDERY weekly for regular driving, always before long trips
- • Keep a pressure gauge in your car - petrol station gauges not always accurate
- • Take photos of damage before driving - useful if damage worsens or for insurance
- • Keep handbook in car - tells you correct pressures, fluids, bulb types, etc.
Track Your Safety Checks
Log safety checks, maintenance, and repairs in AutoChain. Keep your complete vehicle history organized.