Staying warm in winter
To prepare for winter weather, follow the links below.
Clearing snow and ice yourself – the 'snow code'
During cold weather there has been some discussion regarding the clearance of pavements by individuals.
There is 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.
Remember, people walking on snow and ice have responsibility to be careful themselves.
Follow the link above for advice on clearing paths and public spaces safely and effectively.
Help to those in our society who are more vulnerable in severe weather
The Government has issued Guidance on Community Action during severe weather a copy of which is below, please take the time to read this and assist those who need your help
Weather Warnings
Severe weather warnings are issued by the met office and can be viewed on line using the following link.
Animal welfare in severe weather
While priority will generally be given to human needs, protecting the welfare of animals in severe weather is also important.
Advice to Farmers
During periods of bad weather farmers will already be working to ensure livestock is protected from the severe weather and that food and water is available. Farmers will be best placed to identify and source feed and water for their animals, for example by co-operating with neighbours if supplies run short or access is difficult.
It is important to ensure that where animals are kept outside drinking water troughs etc. are kept free of ice and that if pipes and other water supply fittings are blocked water is taken to the animals regularly.
If you face serious difficulties in sourcing supplies to protect the welfare of your animals, contact one of the organisations listed at the end of this note who will try and identify solutions in co-operation with each other.
Local Authorities have statutory responsibilities in relation to animal health and welfare on farms, at markets and in transport, and can provide further advice and support. In an emergency the RSPCA will also provide help and advice.
Advice to pet and horse owners
Where pets (such as rabbits and guinea pigs) are normally kept outside in hutches during mild winters, owners should consider moving them into garages / sheds to provide additional thermal insulation. Where cages cannot be moved additional protection or insulation should be provided wherever possible. It is also important to ensure a supply of drinking water. Ice should be cleared from drinking water containers and the spouts should be defrosted regularly.
As with farmed livestock, horses and ponies usually kept outside during the winter should have access to shelter at all times and a regular provision of feed and water ensured. Where such provision is inadequate, owners should consider moving the animals and/or permanently stabling in the interim period. Water supplies for all horses and ponies should be checked regularly and alternative sources supplied if mains failure occurs.
