It's not like we don't have serious winters over here. In fact, every year we suffer the consequences of severe weather, resulting in many people stranded in cars due to snow and ice or involved in weather-related accidents.

Still, many who think they are prepared for the winter are failing to carry essential items in their car such as warm clothing, jump leads and a shovel according to a recent survey by Manheim Auctions.

The research shows that less than 5% of motorists are planning to buy winter tyres this year even though weather forecasters are already predicting another winter of chaos on the roads. The recent survey found that only 33% of respondents would carry warm clothing, 25% would keep jump leads in the car and 21% would carry a shovel.

Craig Mailey, Marketing Director for Manheim Auctions, said: "Preparing for winter is second nature to many people but it goes beyond just carrying an ice scraper and de-icer. You need to prepare for the possibility of being stuck in traffic for long periods or of getting stranded in the snow."

The survey highlights motorists' best winter tips:

• Top-up screen wash (89%)
• Carry ice scraper (80%)
• Top-up anti-freeze (78%)
• Carry de-icer (77%)
• Check water level (66%)
• Carry warm clothing (33%)
• Keep jump leads in the boot (25%)
• Carry a shovel (21%)
• Carry a warning triangle (19%)
• Carry a reflective jacket (17%)

Consumers publication Which? recommends some other essential items to keep in the car during the next few months, including an in-car mobile phone charger and a set of snow socks.

They also advise on adapting the driving style if the weather turns to snow or ice, making sure that there is at least a seven or eight second gap between cars.