With freezing temperatures on the way, British Gas has shared essential tips to prepare for colder conditions. Being prepared can make a massive difference to your home in the event of a cold-weather emergency.
The Met Office has forecast that temperatures are set to plummet this weekend. Some reports even claim “polar vortex” conditions, with parts of the UK expected to drop below 0°C.
The advance three-to-five-day forecast reads: “Unsettled with spells of rain or showers Sunday and Monday. Rain in the south on Tuesday, with some hill snow possible. Brighter with showers elsewhere. Often windy and feeling cold.”
British Gas has recently shared a winter checklist titled: “How to get ready for heavy snowfall”. It is designed to help households prepare for snow and sub-zero nights ahead of winter, especially once December, January and February arrive. It includes one key warning at the top of the list.
Protect your pipes, because a freeze can quickly lead to a burst and serious water damage. A simple first step is to insulate exposed pipework with foam pipe lagging and insulating tubing, which are widely available at DIY stores and usually straightforward to fit.
To reduce the risk of frozen pipes, it is advised to set your thermostat to at least 7°C, even if you’re away from home. Many modern systems include frost-protection features that turn the heating on if the temperature drops too low.
Another easy but often overlooked job is to fix leaky taps. Even a small drip can create bigger problems in freezing weather, as ice can build up and put extra pressure on pipework.
Beyond pipe protection, British Gas says insulation is crucial for keeping warm air in and bills down. Loft insulation can make a big difference, while draught-proofing gaps around windows and doors with weather-stripping tape can help stop icy air from getting inside. Some households also use plastic window insulation backing for an extra barrier against the cold.
Cold weather can also increase reliance on wood burners and electric heaters, which raises safety risks. British Gas urges people to test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors regularly. If snow builds up outside, ventilation outlets should be kept clear so they can work properly.
Households are also advised to find their stopcock now, rather than during an emergency. If a pipe bursts, shutting off the mains water quickly can limit the damage. Stopcocks are often under the kitchen sink or in a cupboard on an exterior wall.
Finally, it’s worth preparing for disruption beforehand. Keep things like blankets and warm clothing accessible, store torches and chargers, and consider an emergency kit with three days’ essentials. During severe weather, checking in on elderly or vulnerable neighbours can make a real difference to their own wellbeing.