Be prepared for the big freeze.......

Wednesday 4th December 2013

With cold temperatures set to hit the UK over the next few days, here is some essential advice to homeowners and drivers.

Homeowners:

Leave your central heating running, not on a timer, but at a constant temperature (the coldest time is between 1am and 3am). If possible, leave it running in all rooms;

If you know you're going to be away, either leave the heating on, or drain your water and heating systems. If you have a property that is unoccupied, drain the system. To do this, turn off the stopcock, shut down the boiler and open all taps. If you're unsure about the central heating, speak to a plumber. Remember to leave your insurance details with a friend or neighbour;

Check the lagging on your pipes and water tank - pay a visit to the loft if you have one. If you have enough constant heating in the house, it will prevent the water tank from freezing. The most likely effect of the sub-zero temperatures in the home will be frozen pipes and water tanks;

Bring pets indoors and if you have fish in a pond, leave something floating in the middle of your pond - i.e. a ball - to prevent it freezing over. When you want to get air to them, lift up the ball;

Keep a supply of batteries, torches and provisions to hand;

If your home loses power, keep the freezer door shut.

Drivers:

Decrease your speed and leave yourself plenty of room to stop. You should allow at least three times more space than usual between you and the car in front of you;

Brake gently to avoid skidding. If your wheels start to lock up, ease off the brake;

Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists;

Use low gears to keep traction, especially on hills;

For cars that are not being regularly used, ensure you turn the engine over and keep it running to so the battery stays energised;

If warming your car up, do not leave it unattended with the keys in the ignition. Many cars are stolen this way by opportunist thieves each year;

During cold weather it is especially important to check tyre, battery and wiper blade condition. Make sure the lights are fully functioning and double check oil and fuel levels before setting off;

Keep a warm coat or blanket in the car in case of a breakdown, as well as some emergency supplies such as some chocolate or a hot drink;

Take your breakdown telephone help-line number and mobile phone with you on all journeys;

Check anti-freeze levels and carry de-icer in case the locks freeze. It is also useful to keep a torch, ice scraper - and in extreme weather conditions wellington boots and a shovel in your car.

With much of the UK expected to be hit by cold emperatures over the coming days, it’s important that homeowners and drivers are well prepared. By following this advice, you can help limit any potential problems that may occur.