Experts are urging drivers to use a bizarre motoring hack which could save them in an emergency as the cold temperatures continue to hit the nation.
The Met Office has issued yellow and amber weather warnings affecting multiple parts of the UK over the last week.
Two amber weather warnings for snow and three yellow warnings for snow and ice have been issued while the rest of the country deals with near-freezing temperatures.
Northern Scotland is expected to get the worst of the snow with the Met Office warning that travel delays on roads are likely, stranding some vehicles and passengers.
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Motorists could find themselves stuck in snow or ice this week
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It added that there was a good chance that rural communities could be cut off, in addition to delays and cancelations along the transport network.
For motorists who still need to use their cars despite the poor weather conditions, experts are urging them to make use of a “crucial” tip in the event that they become stuck.
Drivers are warned that this method should only be used in emergency situations, but could help save lives if the cars become stuck in snow or ice.
Graham Conway, from Select Car Leasing, says drivers could “let a good amount of air” out of the vehicle’s tyres.
This will increase the surface area of the rubber that is in contact with the road, boosting the chances of the car having traction with the ground.
He added: “This sounds like something that wouldn’t actually work in reality, but letting the air out of your tyres can be a crucial piece of advice for any motorists who find themselves stranded in snow and in real danger of harm.
“It’s a technique that racers on the famous Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah, USA, also use to boost performance.
“However, you should only attempt this if you are carrying a portable tyre Inflator or air compressor, so that you’re able to return the tyres to the correct pressure as soon as it is safe to do so.
“Attempting to continue a journey for a prolonged period of time with incorrect tyre pressures can be extremely dangerous, potentially even leading to complete blow-outs. Letting air from your tyres is recommended in emergency situations only.”
Graham Conway referenced a motorist who was travelling at Christmas to a holiday cottage at the bottom of a valley, with steep roads to access the property on each side.
The driver let half of the air out of his tyres before taking a run-up at the hill, allowing them and their family to continue their journey.
Drivers could also free their cars using their vehicle mats. If the wheels are spinning on the spot, they can use the mats to “dig” themselves out.
They should clear any snow from around the wheels then place the mats – rubber side up – in front of the wheels.
Conway continued, saying: “If you position the mats correctly, your tyres will make contact with the rubber mat, rather than the snow, and you may be able to make forward progress.
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Drivers are being urged to be careful when driving in snow
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“You should, however, stand well back from the wheels and the mats, just in case they’re catapulted behind the car, or to the side, when the tyres make contact.”
