Don't forget in the summer take plenty of water, sun cream and a thong, just in case you break down and have to sit for hours in the heat. I normally take a little tent for added shade, a barbeque, with burgers , sausages and beer stored in a cooler. Don't forget the hanky, for your head. Other than that the jobs a gooden.

Thanks Amanda, some people think I am nasty. I recognise the name worked with you once I think, not in the same place but for the same company.

For all those people who listened to my sound advice and carried items in the boot, extra clothes, hot drinks, camping stove etc. well done for all those who mocked this post, people where stuck on the motorway for up to 7 hrs. That'll teach you to mock. Go forth and spread the word, just goes to show it just doesn't happen in the countryside.

I followed the advice the other day, was travelling in extreme weather, so I took my Shovel, My Blanket, A sleeping bag and a carrier bag full of Mars Bars and my Flashing Beacon with me, looked a right berk on my train though......

Dear All A reminder of what extremes we face; have a look at the gasoline spillage on the HSE website. I understand that gasoline tanker drivers are trained. From a previous life, I understand that fuel terminal operatives are supposed to be trained as well. www.hse.gov.uk/humanfact...soline-spillage.htm#tab1 If 'common sense' is the answer, the wrong question is being asked. I hope Jeremy Clarkson does see this one! Cheers. Nigel

To an extent we're all guilty of ignoring sensible advice. We all make decisions! Do we all follow the law, follow good practice or guidance, or ignore it?! For example, how many people still use mobile phones whilst driving? How many ignore the speed limit? How many people read the paper or play with their phone whilst the safety announcement is being broadcast on a plane or ship? How many people drink excessively or smoke? How many of us practitioners are guilty of such things? We all know the risks, after all, every cigarette packet has a warning label on it! Many adverts warning of danger related to mobile phone use and speeding etc. I ask, is it a lack of 'common sense' or an informed decision to ignore sensible advice! I wonder, if the safety announcement on a ship changed to a discussion about pickled onions, how many passengers would even notice? (except those who like pickled onions maybe)!! Maybe we can only blame ourselves for the nanny state, all based on the fact that many of us choose to ignore the law, good practice or guidance!