Drivers face £60 fines rising to £2,500 over 'tempting but dangerous habit' this week

A dangerous de-icing tip could cause £2,500 fines next week. The UK faces snowfall from Sunday, November 17, to Tuesday, November 19, it has been warned, as the mercury plunges and Birmingham and beyond is struck by sub-zero conditions.

Ahead of the cold shift, Windscreen Wipers warned road users, motorists and drivers: "A tempting but dangerous habit is portholing. This is when drivers only clear a patch of the windscreen, a ‘porthole’, to look through when they are driving.

"This is dangerous and can land you with a hefty fine of £60 rising to £2,500 if your driving is deemed to be dangerous. Make sure that you always clear your entire windscreen before setting off." They added: "Using water of any temperature to de-ice windscreens is not advised.

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"Hot water will cause the glass to expand, which can result in it cracking or even shattering, and cold water can freeze on top of existing ice and frost. Both methods can damage your windscreen, sometimes beyond repair." In the cold winter months, the AA has also encouraged road users to "turn on the warm air blower" and "heated mirrors" to clear frost cover quickly and safely.

They explained: "Start the engine and turn on the warm air blower on the windscreen. Switch on the rear windscreen heater and heated mirrors, if you have them. Turn on the air-con. It's not just for summer – it'll remove moisture from the air to stop the car from misting up.

"Don't use your hands to wipe misted-up windows – you'll leave greasy smears and a diamond ring could scratch the glass. Use a lint-free absorbent cloth if necessary. Stay with your car the whole time while the engine's running."

The yellow weather alerts and warnings from the Met Office begin from tomorrow, the agency has said.