Winter Warmer

 

Baby it’s cold outside!

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.

 

Winter warmer 1

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 where your homes are 

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.

Winter Warmer 2

 

Heating

Make sure your heating is working properly… If you are having any issues, get in touch with us by calling 0300 123 1222

 

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
  • Where 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)

 

Good Neighbours

When the weather takes a turn for the worse, become someone’s very own ‘Snow Angel’ by checking on elderly or vulnerable neighbours.

  • Make sure they are eating and drinking properly, and that their cupboards are stocked
  • Have they got enough blankets & warm clothes handy?
  • Have they got someone they can call in the case of an emergency?