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Winter Weather

Over the past couple of years we have faced some of the most extreme winters seen in a generation. We have our own plans and are prepared for the worst again, but we want you to be prepared and here we offer you some advice on how you can be prepared for winter.person shovelling snow

Gritting

Gritting of highways across Bolsover District is the responsibility of the Highways Authority, which is Derbyshire County Council. Please visit our gritting pages for more detailed informaton.

What are Bolsover District Council's responsibilities?

During adverse weather conditions we have a PDF icon Winter Maintenance Policy that outlines what areas and priorities we are responsible for and will deal with.

Clearing snow and ice from pavements yourself

Anyone can clear snow and ice from the pavement outside their home or public spaces to prevent slips and falls. Follow the snow code to clear snow and ice safely.

Don’t be put off clearing paths because you’re afraid someone will get injured. Remember, people walking on snow and ice have a responsibility to be careful themselves.

Follow the advice below to make sure you clear the pathway safely and effectively. And don’t believe the myths - it's unlikely you'll be sued or held legally responsible for any injuries if you have cleared the path carefully.

Clear the snow and ice early in the day

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.

Use salt or sand - not water

Don’t make the pathways more dangerous by causing them to refreeze. 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 melt snow or 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.

Be careful not to spread salt on plants or grass as it may damage them.

If you don’t have enough salt, you can also use sand or ash. These won’t stop the path icing over as effectively as salt, but will provide good grip underfoot.

Take care where you move the snow

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.

Offer to clear your neighbours’ paths

If your neighbour will have 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 alright in the cold weather. If you’re worried about them, try contacting their relatives or friends, or if necessary telephone us on 01246 242424 and we will see what help and advice we can offer.

Protecting your home

As the weather turns colder, now is a good time to think about what winter weather preparations you, your family and community may need to make.

  • Check that pipes are adequately lagged
  • Check that you have ordered your winter heating fuel
  • Check that you know where your stoptap is located
  • Find out if you are entitled to grants and subsidies for home heating and insulation

Winter driving tips:

  • Only travel if your journey is necessary - could you use public transport instead?
  • Check Teletext or listen to local radio for the latest weather and travel information.
  • In icy conditions slow down, steer gently and avoid harsh braking.
  • Use dipped headlights if driving during snowfalls.
  • Ensure your windscreen is free of frost and ice.
  • Check your lights are clean and in working order and your windscreen washer is full.
  • Get a garage to check your car battery is in a good condition.
  • If going on a long journey take a shovel, torch, wellington boots, warm clothing, food and a hot drink.
  • If you break down, stay with your vehicle until help arrives.
  • If you have to leave the vehicle make yourself visible to other road users.

Media information

For general traffic and weather conditions information tune into your local radio station on the following frequencies:

  • BBC Radio Derby FM 95.3, 96.0, 104.5; MW 1116
  • BBC Radio Nottingham FM 95.5, 103.8, MW 1584
  • BBC Radio Sheffield FM 88.6, 94.7, 104.1; MW 1035
  • BBC GM FM 95.1, 104.6
  • Peak 107 FM 102.0, 107.4
  • Hallam FM 97.4, 102.9
  • Ram FM 102.8
  • Century 106 FM 106.0
  • Smooth Radio 106.6 FM 101.4, 106.6
  • Mansfield FM 103.2
  • Key 103 FM 103.0
  • Trax FM 107.9.

Last Updated on Wednesday, 15 February 2012 15:18

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