Gritters have been out trailing routes across Kent in preparation for the winter.

Kent County Council (KCC) sent out 60 gritters and five mini versions for a dry run to allow drivers to familiarise themselves with the routes and ensure vehicles are working before temperatures plummet.

KCC — which has stored 21,000 tonnes of salt in six depots county wide — has 53 primary salting routes covering 1,600 miles of road.

There are over 2,000 salt bins across the county and KCC is backed up by around 117 farmers to help plough 208 rural routes during bad snow.

JackFrost, SnowQueen and SaltShaker are some of the names of the nine gritters which will be covering the Dartford and Gravesham boroughs.

Matthew Balfour, KCC cabinet member for Environment and Transport, said: “It might seem early to be thinking about winter but freezing conditions can strike early and we’re fully prepared.

“We’re stocked up with 23,000 tonnes of salt, held in a network of depots across the county and our gritters are ready to be deployed should the temperatures plummet.

“Whilst we’re confident we’re prepared, I’d urge everyone to make sure they’re ready for the winter months.

“This includes checking over your car, particularly brakes, topping up anti-freeze and ensuring tyres are in the best condition for maximum safety.

“As ever, check the weather before travelling and make use of our salt bins to improve grip on roads and pavements.”

The council has urged the public to prepare for wintery conditions.

They said:

• Make sure you have prepared and your vehicle is ready for winter driving.
• Plan ahead and check traffic information and weather reports before driving.
• Only drive if absolutely essential when there is heavy snow.
• KCC cannot clear pavements, so take extra care when walking. Please use available salt bins to scatter over pavements and roads.
• Make sure you check your tyres as lower treads can cause skidding.
• It may be sunny but always check the weather before travelling.

When you clear snow and ice:

• Do it early in the day – it’s easier to move fresh, loose snow.
• Don’t use water – it might refreeze and turn to black ice.
• Use salt if possible – it will melt the ice or snow and stop it from refreezing overnight (but don’t use the salt from salting bins as this is used to keep roads clear).
• You can use ash and sand if you don’t have enough salt – it will provide grip underfoot.
• Pay extra attention when clearing steps and steep pathways – using more salt may help.