WITH THE clocks going back on Sunday morning, police in the Scottish Borders have issued the following advice for pedestrians, cyclists and drivers.

“Winter means changes in the roads, shorter days and changing weather. We all have a responsibility to keep Scotland’s roads safe during the winter months.”

Advice for pedestrians out walking during winter:

Dress for the weather by wearing reflective or bright-coloured clothing so other road users can see you when it's dark or visibility is poor

If you are walking home late at night, make sure someone knows where you're going and when

Vehicles can take up to ten times longer to stop on slippery road surfaces so take extra care crossing the road

Stick to pedestrian crossings

If there are no crossings nearby, find a place with a clear view and wait for long gaps in the traffic before crossing the road

Don't cross the road between parked vehicles, unless it can't be avoided then take extra care (look out for vehicles that suddenly pull out or reverse)

Never cross the road behind a bus

If there is no pavement, keep to the right hand side of the road so you can see traffic coming towards you.

Advice to consider if you are cycling during winter:

Make sure your bike can be seen by people on the road

Use a good set of front and rear lights (white at the front, red at the back)

Wear clothes that help you be seen on your bike, such as bright and light reflective items

Pay attention to road signs, markings and particularly red lights

Do not cycle on the pavements, they may be slippery and can also endanger pedestrians

Be mindful of the effects poor weather can have on other road users

Make sure you know about the dangers around you

Cars can take twice as long to stop in wet weather

Braking can be unpredictable in ice and snow.

Advice for drivers during winter:

Make sure your car is ready for winter

Check that your tyres, brakes, windscreens, wiper blades and windows are free from defects and clean

Drive to the road conditions. Road conditions can change without warning, stopping distances will be affected by the weather

Make sure your windows are clean and aren't misted up

Make sure there is no snow and ice on your windows before you drive

When the roads are icy, drive at a slow speed in a high gear

Accelerate and brake very gently

Driving distracted (for example, using a Sat Nav) can cause additional stress. It is dangerous to yourself, passengers and other road users.