Safety drill ; pre-start; and start-up:

Safety drill on entering the car :

• Handbrake - pull it up, to make sure the car is secure
• Seat position - clutch fully down with knee slightly bent
• Seat position - be able to reach the top of the steering wheel with
  arms slightly bent.
• Seatbelt - no twists, and lock securely
• Headrest (whiplash protectors are what they really are) up with the top
  above your eye level.
• Adjust mirrors (as described on basics page)

Before you start the engine:

• Footbrake pressed and held - to check that your brakes are working.
• Clutch down - to disconnect the engine in case it is in gear - some cars won't start unless you push the clutch down.
• Re-check handrake by lifting it, to ensure that its is on and working.
• gear lever into neutral - feel the spring to be sure (it can still wobble in gear)

Once the engine is started:

• Check fuel contents on fuel gauge
• Check that all dashboard warning lights are off.
• Check that windscreen demisters are set, and that you can see out OK.
• Check that radio, or CD, is set / off
• Check that you know how to work the lights and windscreen wipers, and switch them on if necessary.

If a warning light comes on when you are driving. Stop and check what it means. it's generally expensive.