BARNSLEY’S fleet of gritters have been brought out of their hibernation and are now on standby to play a role in dealing with the heatwave.

With temperatures exceeding 30C this week, Barnsley Council confirmed that they will be used to grit melting road surfaces if required.

Roads can reach temperatures of up to 55C in hot weather, with tar sticking to vehicle tyres.

Councillor David Goddard, cabinet support member for environment and highways, said: “During periods of very hot weather, road surfaces can soften and become sticky, which can affect grip for drivers, cyclists and motorcyclists.

“We are closely monitoring conditions across the borough and, if required, we may use gritters to apply a fine layer of material to help absorb excess binder and restore skid resistance.

“This is a targeted, preventative measure used only when conditions require it and it helps us keep the borough’s roads safe during extreme temperatures.”

The AA warned drivers that heat can put extra strain on vehicles, with under-inflated, damaged or old tyres particularly likely to fail in hotter conditions.

Edmund King, president of the AA, said: “The main risk for drivers is not that the road suddenly ‘melts’ everywhere, but that patches can become tacky or uneven.

“That can affect braking, steering and grip, especially for motorcyclists and cyclists, and can also throw up loose material.

“If drivers come across a softened or damaged surface, they should slow down, avoid harsh braking or steering, and leave extra space from the vehicle in front.”