Emergencies - winter weather

In the event of an unusually severe winter, with prolonged cold spells, snowfall and so on. It is sensible to have some preparations in place to ensure your safety and well being. Icy conditions can make it difficult for pedestrians and traffic. Consider the necessity of your journey.

The Government has issued advice to help shopkeepers and residents who want to clear their paths of ice and snow without having to worry about falling foul of health and safety law.

Pedestrians

• Wear appropriate clothing. Be both WARM and VISIBLE
• Carry a torch if required
• Be aware of icy pavements
• If forced to walk on a road face oncoming vehicles so that you can react to the traffic
• Watch out for objects buried in snow which might trip you up or cause injury
• Let someone know where you are going and when you will be back
• If you carry a mobile phone, check that the battery is charged

Motorists

• Decide whether your journey is essential or can it wait.
• Ensure your car is fit for use during severe weather conditions, check lights, windscreen wipers and anti freeze windscreen wash, tyre pressures and condition.
• Ensure you have enough fuel for your journey BEFORE YOU SET OUT
• Carry a shovel, blankets, drinking water, torch and food (chocolate, energy bars etc.)
• Let someone know where you are going and expected to arrive/return
• Check that your mobile phone battery is charged.
• In the event of a breakdown or that you are stranded by snow DO NOT leave your vehicle unless you know where you are going, Call for assistance and ensure that your location is known.

Look after yourself and be a good neighbour

• Know where to switch off your household water, electricity or gas supply
• Keep a reasonable food supply in the house
• Keep warm - extra clothes, blankets and so on.
• Consider bottled water in case water supply is disrupted by frozen/burst mains (store water in bath/sink if necessary)
• Have a backup heating source (Gas/Electric heater)
• Have a backup lighting source (Torch for example - Be careful if using candles/naked flame)
• Take the time to check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours, especially in the event of power outages and disruption
• Do they have heating and is it safe?
• Do they have food and drink?
• Do they require medication ?( repeat prescriptions and so on)
• Report any concerns to Social Services or the Police
• Assist by ensuring that pathways in or around your property are clear where possible.
• See the Additional government advice concerning clearing paths for more information

Power Outage

• In the event that electricity or gas is cut off take the following precautions:
• Turn off appliances such as cookers, flat irons etc. This will ensure that when power is restored there is a reduced risk of fire.
• Check pilot lights on gas appliances when gas is restored
• Report any gas smell