Severe Cold Weather Advice

Practical steps

• To prevent freezing of internal pipes it is recommended that you turn off your water supply to prevent pipes from bursting. Locate the stop-cock inside your home (usually under the kitchen sink). Also, know the location of the stop-cock outside of your home, if you cannot find it, contact South West Water.
• Keep torches (and any batteries) to hand in case lighting fails or you need to switch off power.
• Keep important emergency numbers near your home - a 24-hour plumber, an emergency salvage and clean-up company, usually listed under 'Carpet and Upholstery Cleaners' in directories.
• Check your buildings and contents insurance details. Most will be pleased for you to arrange damage limitation with plumbers and cleaners yourself. Note any emergency contact telephone numbers.
• If your house has any exposed pipes, lag them with thick material, old blankets etc. If lofts are very cold, leave trap doors open.
• If you are away from your house overnight or for any long period, leave the heating system on a low setting to prevent pipes freezing. If practical, switch off water and drain pipes.
• Ensure everyone living in your home knows where the water stop cock and electricity mains switch, are located.
• If you have a battery radio check it and ensure you have spare batteries.

Getting information during severe cold weather

• Listen to local radio for advice and updates
• Traffic and road disruptions

Switch on - Tune in - Stay listening

• Read notices and advice from the local press, libraries, Age UK etc, regarding welfare support available and any cold weather payments scheme.

If you think a pipe is frozen, but has not burst

• Contact a plumber or if it is safe try to thaw the affected pipe using a hair dryer or hot water bottle (do not use a naked flame to do this). Be aware of the dangers of electricity and water.
• Store some water, for personal and toilet needs, for when you have to switch the mains water off later.

If you find a burst pipe, or have water dripping

• First switch off your electricity at the mains - but if there is any danger of mains switch being wet seek advice first. Do not touch any light or power fittings until mains electricity has been disconnected.
• Turn off water at the stop-cock.
• Phone for a plumber, and if extensive damage is likely, phone your house insurance emergency number for advice, or get in touch with an emergency salvage and clean-up company. Remember you will have to pay for these services if you have no insurance cover.
• Think about the effects of no water or electricity in your house; if you have problems ask neighbours or family for help.

Remember

• No matter how bad the situation, ensure the safety of people before property. Call the Fire and Rescue Service if you face a flooding situation which you cannot cope with.
• Check your house now and also after a cold spell, before the thaw sets in.
• Be a good neighbour and check people living around you.

Clearing snow and ice from pavements yourself

There's no law stopping you from clearing snow and ice on the pavement outside your home or from public spaces. It's unlikely you'll be sued or held legally responsible for any injuries on the path if you have cleared it carefully. Follow the snow code when clearing snow and ice safely.