Energy giant British Gas has issued guidance urging UK households to prepare for heavy snow and strong winds this weekend, as the Met Office has issued yellow weather warnings across the country. Storm Dave is expected to bring up to 20cm of snow in parts of north-west Scotland, with a risk of flooding from up to 50mm of rain.
The company advises people to enhance insulation by weatherproofing gaps around windows and doors, safeguard pipes with insulating tubing, and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. It also recommends locating the stopcock in case of a burst pipe.
British Gas suggests preparing for potential power cuts by keeping sleeping bags, blankets, and warm coats handy. It further recommends assembling an emergency kit with at least three days' worth of food and essentials, including medicines, drinking water, non-perishable food, a torch, batteries, and a phone charger.
For motorists, the firm advises checking brakes, heater, tyres, and windscreen wipers before winter travel. It also urges people to check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours and plan how to stay in contact if stranded away from home.
