Being prepared is the key to coping well in the
winter.
If you live on a slope or have steep steps consider
buying your own salt.
Think about how you will be able to keep your house warm. For
more information visit our home
energy section.
If you drive, check your vehicle is well maintained and
serviced, that tyres (including the spare) have good depth of
tread and are properly inflated.
Remember to also check if you have anti-freeze in the cooling
system, that your battery is in good condition, and that windscreen
wipers, washers and lights are working. You may also want to make
sure you have a scraper and de-icer in the car and carry it at all
times.
If we do have extreme weather you can clear snow from the path
outside your home, and your neighbours', to stop it freezing
and turning into slippery ice. If you are worried about doing this
visit the
Directgov
website for more information on how to clear snow safely.
Use neighbourhood grit bins on public roads and paths and
contact our
Streets and
Open Spaces team if supplies are running low. But remember
these are for public areas only - do not take grit for your own
paths and driveways.
If you need to travel check the radio or web for travel
information and weather forecasts.
In extreme weather think:
- Is the journey essential?
- Do you have enough fuel in your tank?
- Do people know where you are going?
- Do you need warm clothes, hot drinks, a torch or shovel?
- Have you got a charged mobile phone?
If you do have to drive go carefully, especially when leaving or
joining untreated roads at junctions. Use dipped headlights in poor
visibility and snow. Drive in the highest gear possible and avoid
harsh braking and acceleration. Maintain a safe stopping distance
and keep a careful watch on other road users, such as cyclist or
children.
Also think about where you park - have you left enough room for
a gritter or snow plough to pass?
If you get into trouble when driving:
- Stay with your vehicle if possible until help arrives
- Make yourself visible and give the police
the details if you do have to leave your
vehicle
For more information download our
winter maintenance service
standards (pdf, Apr 09, 74KB) or contact
our Streets
and Open Spaces team.
