Planning for the winter

Last month we cast our minds back to the big freeze and with Christmas approaching it is time to look ahead at how best to prepare for more severe weather.
Last winter concerns over liability prevented many residents from clearing their pavements.
There's no law stopping you from clearing snow and ice on the pavement outside your home or from public spaces. It's unlikely you'll be sued or held legally responsible for any injuries on the path if you have cleared it carefully.
Remember, people walking on snow and ice have responsibility to be careful themselves. Follow the advice below to make sure you clear the pathway safely and effectively.
It’s easier to move fresh, loose snow rather than hard snow that has packed together from people walking on it. So if possible, start removing the snow and ice in the morning. If you remove the top layer of snow in the morning, any sunshine during the day will help melt any ice beneath. You can then cover the path with salt before nightfall to stop it refreezing overnight.
If you use water to melt the snow, it may refreeze and turn to black ice. Black ice increases the risk of injuries as it is invisible and very slippery. You can prevent black ice by spreading some salt on the area you have cleared. You can use ordinary table or dishwasher salt - a tablespoon for each square metre you clear should work. Don’t use the salt found in salting bins - this will be needed to keep the roads clear.
If you don’t have enough salt, you can also use sand or ash. These won’t stop the path icing over as well as salt, but will provide good grip under foot.
When you’re shovelling snow, take care where you put it so it doesn’t block people’s paths or drains. Make sure you make a path down the middle of the area to be cleared first, so you have a clear surface to walk on. Then shovel the snow from the centre of the path to the sides.
If your neighbour is having difficulty getting in and out of their home, offer to clear snow and ice around their property as well. Check that any elderly or disabled neighbours are not effected by the cold weather.

Finally, some suggestions from forum members on how to stay safe at home and if you venture out.
Check that you have plenty of food in the house and a well stocked freezer.
Companies such as Wiltshire foods will deliver ready frozen meals and all the supermarkets stock a wide range of frozen meals.
If you are on medication ensure you have at least a weeks supply in hand.
Only go out if absolutely necessary and take your mobile phone with you.
When walking on snow take short steps and keep your centre of gravity underneath you. Keep your hands free using a shoulder bag where possible and only use well lit areas.
A useful phone number to keep to hand is Help Direct on 03033331111. They are prepared to respond to any call for advice or assistance should we have another big freeze.