If you are able to and would like to help in your local community, you can:

• buy salt and grit in advance
• make sure you have access to shovels and equipment to clear snow

We cannot provide you with equipment, salt or grit.

The best way to help is by helping your immediate neighbours and people you know that may need assistance.

Tips for clearing snow and ice

For the safest way to help clear snow and ice, you should:

• wear warm clothes and footwear with a good grip
• wear visible clothing so you can be seen
• try to clear snow or ice early - it's easier to move loose snow and the sun will help melt ice
• clear a small path down the middle of the pavement for a safe surface to walk on, and then shovel from the centre to the kerbside
• make sure you do not block paths, driveways or drains
• use salt or sand - not water as it will freeze, ordinary table salt can be used or you can buy bags of rock salt from DIY shops
• use more salt on steps and steep pathways
• only use sand to help provide a good grip, it will not stop the path icing over
• salt areas before snow falls to make snow clearance easier
• make sure you do not use hot water - this will melt the snow, but may replace it with black ice which can increase the risk of injury