In countries that have severe winters, it is quite normal for drivers to switch to winter tyres for the cold season.

They aren’t widely used in the UK where harsh winters are quite unusual – in spite of our experience over the past two years. But winter tyres are not just about snow and ice – they also give better grip at lower temperatures.

Winter tyres have a different tread and are made of a different rubber from normal tyres. They stay soft and flexible so they grip at well below freezing – normal tyres stiffen below 7C. You can identify them by the snowflake or mountain symbol on the sidewall.

While winter tyres grip far better in snow and ice, there are drawbacks.

In Europe it’s common to have two sets of wheels and tyres, making the changeover easier. That means paying for a new set of wheels as well as tyres. Then you’ll have to find somewhere to store them, although some suppliers offer a tyre swap and store service.

An alternative to changing tyres is to carry snow chains or snow socks. Snow socks are made of a strong fabric that grips the snow – they stretch-fit over the tyre.

Snow chains are more effective than socks, but they increase the width of the tyre and may affect your suspension, brakes, or wheel arches. Your owner’s handbook or a dealer will be able to tell you if chains can be fitted.

Snow chains will damage a clear road, so you mustn’t fit them until there is a blanket of snow and you must take them off as soon as it thaws.

Expect to pay around £50 for a set of economy chains to carry in the boot for emergencies, and up to a couple of hundred pounds for a heavy duty set suitable for regular use.

Snow socks cost upwards of £40. They are easier to fit and will give sufficient grip for most snowy conditions.

They don’t damage roads, but they will wear out very quickly if you use them on tarmac.

Again, take them off when the snow thaws. It’s a good idea to practise fitting chains and socks before the bad weather, and to wash them after use to get rid of dirt and salt.

Whatever tyres you fit, checking the tread depth and pressure is even more important in winter.

Performance in snow, ice or sub-zero conditions is significantly reduced if the tread depth falls below three millimetres.

Check the pressure when the tyres are cold – that means they should not have been driven more than a mile.

And if the weather’s bad, ask yourself if you really need to drive.