Staying safe during severe weather
As the cold snap bites, our staff and contractors will do their best to respond as quickly as possible to any emergency calls - such as burst pipes or structural damage.
As a result, other non-emergency calls may take longer to deal with. Under these circumstances, please be patient. Muir will endeavour to respond to your query as soon as possible.
Gritting
During times of severe weather, Muir will be responsible for gritting the following areas:
- Sheltered housing schemes
- Supported housing schemes
- Other schemes where we have identified particular problems with access for residents.
Unfortunately, we do not have the resources to carry out this service throughout every scheme and estate. Icy roads and pavements can cause
Most local authorities will work to treat roads and footpaths in icy conditions to minimise injury and delay when travelling. However, you may want to treat your own area or around your home using your own supply of salt. These can be purchased from most DIY stores.
If you are gritting and clearing snow, please follow these simple safety steps.
• Clear snow and ice early in the day. Less compact snow is easier to move.
• Use salt – not water. Pathways become dangerous if they are allowed to refreeze. Remember to use extra on steps or where it is steep.
• Avoid piling snow over drains to prevent flooding when it melts.
• Pile snow away from driveways and turning points to allow free access for vehicles.
Make sure your heating is working properly… If you are having any issues, get in touch with us by calling 0300 123 1222
Dealing with condensation – keep your windows open on trickle vents, use lids on saucepans, keep your heating on a constant low setting and wipe down windows and window-sills when you see condensation
Power Cuts
· Turn off and unplug any appliances that could cause a fire when the supply is restored
· Were you using the hair straighteners or the cooker when the power supply went off? Make sure you turn off and unplug any appliances that could cause fire damage. You may forget they were on when the power comes back on!
· Turn off and unplug any equipment you are not using
- Keep a torch with fresh batteries in an easy-to-find place
- Be careful if you use other forms of heating and lighting (like paraffin heaters and candles)