Are you Winter Ready?

When does winter actually start? The astronomical winter begins on the 21st December and ends on the 20th March. This differs somewhat to the meteorological winter which is from the 1st December to the 28th (or 29th during a leap year) February.

Does this actually matter I hear you asking. In some sense yes, as it gives you a period of time that you would expect the coldest of weather. However, I am sure we can all relate to how different the climate has been for us here in the UK. Nevertheless once we feel that weather cooling and the darker months are upon us we should be thinking, are we winter ready?

Winter ready is different for a 85 year old who lives in rural Scotland compared to a 35 year old with two children. Below I have tried to give you some of my top tips to make sure you are as prepared as you can be for the months ahead. Missed something? Let me and others know so we can all remain safe and prepared for the unexpected.

1. Check your car

Cold weather can cause your tyre pressures to drop as the air inside the tyre contracts during cold spells. Low tyre pressures impact the fuel efficiency of the vehicle but more importantly leads to uneven tyre wear, and less grip on icy roads making your journey that much more dangerous. You can also check your car's antifreeze levels and make sure your windshield washer fluid is rated for freezing conditions. The cold weather may also effect your cars battery. But if like me you don't know what you are doing you can always book your car into halfords for a free 5 point car check which you can book here https://tinyurl.com/2a6sy3h2.

Additionally, I would also recommend keeping a blanket, first aid kit and water in your car. We have all seen the images on the news of stranded motorists on the motorway having to wait hours for help. If you have neighbours who you think might need some help, drop it into conversation and be that prompt that many may need.

2. Flood risk

As well as the cold the winter period brings an increase in rainfall. A common misconception is that you are only at risk of flooding if you live near a body of water. Pluvial flooding otherwise known as surface water flooding can occur due to heavy rainfall independent of an overflowing body of water. Urban areas where the drainage system has become overwhelmed and run off from hillsides where the water cannot be absorbed are common areas of this type of flooding.

Whatever the type of flooding you are at risk of there are a number of things you can do to prepare for such an event.

• Keep important documents (home insurance, passports, etc) above the ground level, if this isn't possible keep them in a easily accessible location if you need to evacuate.
• Know the locations of your gas and water stop clock/valves. This should be shut off if safe to do so in the event of flooding.
• Have a "go bag" or a "bug out bag" of essential items that you would need for a few days in the event you need to evacuate.
• If you take regular medication ensure this is taken with you.
• Flood water is has many hazards and it is advised to not enter the water.
• If you haven't already sign up to flood alerts which you can do here https://www.gov.uk/get-flood-warnings
• For more information visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/personal-flood-plan/personal-flood-plan

3. Power

We are so reliant on electricity as a society. If a storm was to knock out the power in your area do you have the means to keep things going your WIFI. Power banks are a good solution in the short term, you are able to charge phones and other devices in order to keep informed and connected to friends and relatives. Additionally, store the power cut helpline number (105) on your phone. If your budget will manage it you could consider and larger power station such as a Jackery https://amzn.to/3Krf7mv (Affiliated link). The priority services register is a service for those who may need additional support due to their age, disability or health. If this is you or you know someone this may include go to https://www.thepsr.co.uk/ for more information.

4. Medication

It is good practice to ensure you have an adequate supply of medications in the home. This could include pain relief such as Paracetamol, Ibuprofen and over the counter Co-codamol. If you take regular medication (repeat prescription) it may be advisable to ensure you have sufficient stores of this medication also, you could speak to your G.P about holding more in case of emergencies. 

5. Food & Water

It is recommend that you hold 3 days supply of food and water. The World Health Organisation suggest 3 litres of water per day per adult but more would make you significantly more comfortable. Also factor in family specific needs such as baby formula and pet food. 

This list is not exhaustive and as mentioned your needs may differ from someone else's. Sit down with your family and develop your winter plan, speak with neighbours and come together as a community to help each other prepare for the expected. You can find more information here https://prepare.campaign.gov.uk/.

"Prepared for another day"