Cold, snow and ice
Prolonged cold puts pressure on heating, travel and health.
Before
- Keep warm layers and blankets handy. Know where your stopcock is in case a pipe freezes and bursts.
- If you drive, keep a winter kit in the car: blanket, torch, charger, water, snacks and an ice scraper.
During
- Heat the room you spend most time in, and keep the doors shut.
- Never use a barbecue, camping stove or outdoor heater indoors.
- If a pipe bursts, turn off the water at the stopcock and call a plumber.
- Check on people who may struggle to keep warm.
Official information
Checked against official guidance on 28 Oct 2026. In immediate danger, call 999.
Next: Loss of water supply