The cold snap is coming in – will you be ready?

Many will agree that the UK has seen a pretty mild winter so far. But while the last few months have been unseasonably warm, many experts are now warning that there is a cold snap that is well on its way – which may prompt many to reach for the snow shovel.

The problem is, not everyone will be prepared for this nippy spell. You may have turned the heating up, dug your thermals out of the bottom of the wardrobe – but you don’t want to be caught short elsewhere, so here are a few handy hints that might help.

Think carefully about health and safety

The snow can be all fun and games when it first hits, particularly if you have kids, but it can very quickly turn to tears when the ice takes hold. Consider investing in a grit spreader for your driveway and have a first aid kit on standby in case anyone takes an unexpected tumble. Of course, if you run a business, this is an absolute essential.

Invest in a decent snow shovel

It doesn’t matter whether you have a small drive or an entire car park to worry about you’re bound to need a snow shovel to tackle the harsh weather at some point. There are all kinds of sizes and types available, from heavy duty ones which can help chip away at ice, to ones designed to slip into the back of your car in case you need them while out and about.

How is your heating?

One thing you don’t want to take you by surprise in the cold snap is a broken boiler – as this can cause untold misery. When the darker months roll around, think about having your heating tested by an engineer – just make sure they’re on the Gas Safe Register. Extra layers and duvets can help keep costs low and temperatures steady, but being without hot water is no joke.

Is it a bit drafty?

When it gets pretty cold outside, you may notice it’s more difficult to heat the home. Sure, the plunging temperatures may mean you need to crank up the thermostat a little, but it may also be a sign that there are drafts somewhere in the house. It’s a good idea to take a walk around your home to check for holes or gaps. Whether it is broken glass, gaps under doors or missing seals, these can often be sorted easily and cheaply.

Taking care of the simple things before the weather turns nasty can make a huge difference, so take a moment to get prepared.

How is your heating?

One thing you don’t want to take you by surprise in the cold snap is a broken boiler – as this can cause untold misery. When the darker months roll around, think about having your heating tested by an engineer – just make sure they’re on the Gas Safe Register. Extra layers and duvets can help keep costs low and temperatures steady, but being without hot water is no joke.

Is it a bit drafty?

When it gets pretty cold outside, you may notice it’s more difficult to heat the home. Sure, the plunging temperatures may mean you need to crank up the thermostat a little, but it may also be a sign that there are drafts somewhere in the house. It’s a good idea to take a walk around your home to check for holes or gaps. Whether it is broken glass, gaps under doors or missing seals, these can often be sorted easily and cheaply.

Taking care of the simple things before the weather turns nasty can make a huge difference, so take a moment to get prepared.