Safety around your scheme during snow and icy weather | Tenant news

With the cold weather here to say for a few months yet, the Met Office has issued warnings about snow and ice, so taking more care when moving and driving around the grounds of your scheme is essential.

Skids, slips, trips, and falls are more common in icy conditions, so it’s worth following some practical measures to stay safe.

Planning ahead

Plan ahead by checking weather forecasts, allowing extra time to move around, and ensure you’re wearing warm clothing and sturdy footwear when heading out.

If you notice hazards around your scheme, report it to us straight away by calling Habinteg Direct on 0300 365 3100.

Don’t be in a rush when moving about the scheme. Looking out for neighbours, especially those who may need extra support, will help keep the community safe during icy weather.

Get a grip

Heels and smooth soles are a recipe for slips and falls, so ensure you’ve got proper wellies or boots with good treads.

Use handrails where available and take extra care when walking, as snow can hide uneven surfaces or obstacles.

At this time of year, all grit bins should be fully stocked and ready for use. The grit bins are checked at every Quarterly Scheme Inspection to check on levels of grit. 

Where there is a communal external area, it is the tenant’s responsibility to grit those areas.

The only exception is if the scheme is an extra care scheme and tenants agree to fund this service via their service charge.

Wheelchair users should make sure their tyres have good tread for grip on snow and ice and consider if winter-specific tyres or covers are needed.

Moisture can freeze or cause parts to stick, so keep the chair as dry as possible, using water-resistant covers outdoors and wiping it down when coming inside to keep it working smoothly.

Driving and communal areas

Car parks and roads around the scheme may be slippery. Please drive slowly and ensure windows, mirrors, and lights are clear before setting off.

Once off scheme, look well ahead for potential hazards on the roads including patches of ice and keep your speed well down.

The government's Department for Transport recommends:

• Keeping well back from the road user in front as stopping distances can be ten times greater than on dry roads
• Taking care when overtaking vehicles spreading salt or other de-icer, particularly if you are riding a motorcycle or cycle
• Watching out for snowploughs which may throw out snow on either side. Do not overtake them unless the lane you intend to use has been cleared
• Listening to travel bulletins and take note of variable message signs that may provide information about weather, road and traffic conditions ahead.
  
  

Visit the Met Office website for more advice on ice and snow safety.

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