Be prepared for winter

Are you prepared for winter? See our information below to help you prepare for the colder months ahead. The Met Office also has a useful page detailing 10 things you can do to prepare for winter.

 

Cold weather

Extended periods of cold weather can pose a health risk to vulnerable people like young children, elderly and clinically vulnerable.

How to keep safe in cold weather

Learn more about Cold Weather Health Alerts

 

Winter storms

Strong winds and heavy rain and fallen objects are just some of the risks that come with Winter storms. The Met Office is responsible for posting weather warnings. If extreme weather is announced, make sure you are prepared ahead of time.

How to prepare for and deal with a power cut

 

Flooding

Flooding can happen due to heavy rain, tidal surges, or ground saturation. The best way to protect yourself from flooding is early preparation and knowing what to do in advance.

Check your long-term flood risk via GOV.UK

Prepare for flooding via GOV.UK

Sign up for flood warnings via GOV.UK

 

Preparing an emergency ‘Grab Bag’

The bag contents will vary depending on your needs but may include:

Emergency items:

  • Essential/prescribed medication and equipment like asthma and respiratory aids
  • Hearing aids
  • Glasses/contact lenses
  • Useful phone contacts
  • Mobile phone and charger
  • House and car keys
  • Money and credit cards
  • First aid kit
  • Basic toiletries

Other essential items to consider:

  • Supplies for babies and small children
  • Food, milk formula, drinks you use, food bowls, sterile bottles, sterilising tablets
  • Change of clothing
  • Nappies and wipes
  • Toys, books and activities
  • Food and water (Canned or dried food, snacks, bottled drinking water)
  • Special food needs
  • Clothing and equipment
  • Warm, wind and rainproof clothing
  • Strong shoes for outdoors
  • Waterproof torch and spare batteries (check regularly)
  • Radio and spare batteries (check regularly)
    (perhaps you could consider getting wind-up torches and radios)

Other items to consider:

  • Copies of insurance documents
  • Anti-bacterial hand wipes/gel
  • Blankets and sleeping bags
  • Sun hats and sunscreen
  • Rubbish bags
  • Thermos flask