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In case we do have snow, we have made a list of the sorts of things you could be thinking about now.
Be prepared:
- A supply of torches and/or camping lanterns for emergency lighting.
- A camping gas cooker or other means of cooking, if you rely entirely on electricity.
- A battery-powered radio (make sure you have replacement batteries) in order to receive regular local radio information bulletins.
- Ceefax page 418 displays the Met Office Severe Weather Warnings.
- Adequate insurance to cover your property.
When severe weather is forecast:
- Do not travel unless your journey is absolutely necessary.
- Stow away garden furniture and remove loose articles from outside the house – these might cause damage if blown around.
- Store a few containers filled with fresh water for drinking purposes, especially for young children in case the water supplies fail.
- Check your neighbours to see whether they need help.
When severe weather strikes:
- Remain indoors, close windows and curtains to protect against breaking glass.
- Have your Emergency Pack ready (see below).
- Listen to the local radio for help and advice.
- Never open deep freezers until electricity is fully restored; cover with newspaper and blankets for extra insulation. If food thaws out, do not refreeze, use it straight away,
- Listen to advice given, and do not travel.
- Keep warm and eat regularly, even cold food will give you energy.
- If your electricity supply fails, turn off all major appliances, particularly electric fires and cookers, until power is restored.
Emergency Pack
It is recommended that all households are suitably prepared for the different types of hazard that we could face and, in doing so, should have an 'Emergency Pack' at hand at home, in the car, and at work.
The contents of this pack may be a matter of preference, however, suggested contents should include:
At home
- Lighting (torch/candles) and spare source of power such as batteries/matches.
- Cooking equipment – including tin opener, utensils, and cutlery.
- Drink – bottled water and cans of juice.
- Long-life food and milk – check use-by date and replace when necessary.
- Portable radio including spare batteries
- First Aid kit
- Contact list
- Warm/dry clothing and blankets
- Medication and personal items, such as glasses and baby items.
- Make an evacuation checklist, items that you might need if you had to leave your home quickly.
- Gather mobile telephone and charger, keys, and cash or credit cards.
In the car:
- First Aid kit
- Bottled water
- Torch with spare batteries
- In car mobile telephone charger
- Sweets or long life snacks
- Blanket, warm clothing, and woolly hat
- Spare socks and gloves
- Waterproof clothing and boots
- Spade
- Grit/cat litter.
