The villages of Great Bourton and Little in the Cherwell District of Oxfordshire

How to prepare for snow and cold weather

When snow and ice weather warnings are issued in the UK, follow this winter advice on what to do in snow, ice, and cold temperatures. During the winter months, the UK can experience extreme cold events which can impact our health, homes, driving conditions and vital services. Winter weather can be unpredictable, so make sure you’re prepared.

Preparing for snow and winter weather

Take these steps before winter arrives, or when snow and cold temperatures are forecast:

  • Do your shopping early and stock up. Make sure you have food and other essentials like a first aid kit, bottled water, batteries and a torch.
  • Create an emergency kit. Use this advice to create your own.
  • Check on vulnerable people. Neighbours, family, and friends may need extra support.
  • Invest in a snow shovel or a supply of gritting salt. If heavy snow is forecast, you can use them to make paths and driveways safe. Sand or cat litter can be used instead of gritting salt. Dishwasher salt granules also work well.
  • Get your heating system checked. A plumber can carry out a service and give you advice on how to get your heating working efficiently. Cold air can be bad for your health, and the NHS advises heating your home to at least 18 degrees.
  • Draft-proof your home. Use draft excluders on door ways and check for gaps around your windows to stop heat escaping. If they’re small, you can seal up gaps yourself using caulking, or if you are unsure contact a professional.
  • Regularly check your boiler pressure. On most boilers your pressure gauge should be between one and two bars. A service before winter arrives will help too.
  • Make sure radiators are on to prevent pipes freezing. Frozen pipes can leave your home without water and cause flooding and damage.
  • Clear your gutters of debris. Wind and rain can cause leaves and sticks to pile up in your gutters, potentially causing problems.
  • Plan. Snow and ice can make travelling dangerous or stop you from leaving the house, so be prepared to stay put for a few days.
  • Don’t take risks in treacherous weather. Carefully consider the journeys you plan to take and keep basic supplies in your car in case bad weather arrives early.
  • Stay informed, especially if travelling. 

Read more: How to get your home and property winter ready

When snow and winter weather arrives

If snow has settled or conditions are icy, follow these steps to stay safe:

  • Be careful of black ice on roads and paths. Walking on compacted snow can also be slippery.
  • Be aware of falling snow from high places as it begins to melt.
  • If you’re stuck at home and cut off, try to stay warm and safe. Use these money-saving tips to keep you and your home warm even on the coldest winter days and nights.
  • Try to enjoy it! There’s no reason not to have fun when snow arrives but, be aware there are extra dangers involved.

More advice: 5 tips for staying safe in snow

Travelling in snow and icy conditions

If you must travel during a cold weather event, take the following precautions:

  • Check advice and the latest information from the Met Office and local authorities. Public transport and roads may be affected. Check with the national highways agency for your area and National rail for information.
  • Charge all devices and make sure they’re working properly before you leave home. If you have one, take a battery pack with you.
  • Make sure someone knows your travel plans, route, and when you are expected to arrive.

More advice: travelling in heavy snow and ice

Driving in snow

If you must drive your car during bad weather make sure you:

  • Check forecast weather warnings. Ensure you know when bad weather is forecast and adjust your plans if necessary.
  • Plan your journey. Make sure you check your planned route, even for short journeys, in case of disruption and check traffic updates regularly.
  • Create an emergency kit for your car. Take supplies like food, water, warm clothing, boots, a torch, de-icer, ice scraper, spade, and jump leads.
  • Prepare your vehicle. Follow advice on how to prepare your car for snow and icy conditions.

  • If your car gets stuck in snow:

    • Stay in your car. It will get noticed and there’s a chance you could get lost or injured if you venture out on foot.
    • Don’t run your car’s engine for more than a few minutes at a time and make sure the exhaust isn’t blocked with snow.

    Cost-effective ways to stay warm in winter

    The cost-of-living crisis has made heating a home in winter difficult. Use these money-saving tips to efficiently keep yourself and your home warm.   Keeping warm this winter

    Keep-up-to-date with the latest forecast from the Met Office.

Our much-loved printed village Newsletter, the Broadsheet is delivered to every address in both villages at the end of each month. View and download previous copies here.

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