Practical guidance during the winter months

have plenty of salt and sand on site and scatter sand and salt mixtures on snow, sleet or ice in busy areas
when the weather improves, sweep up the mixture and dry the doormats
consider restricting access to essential areas during severe weather
put up temporary signs about the restrictions
wet and slippery indoor areas, especially entrances, should be mopped regularly
each school should have a bad weather plan with these main points:
- have plenty of bottled drinking water, in case drinking water pipes freeze
- make sure your electricity supply can cope with extra heating and other needs
- be able to provide hot drinks and food if the kitchen is out of action
- know where all gas, water and electricity shut-off points are
- contact the school Support Surveyor for help with preparations
- have clear written procedures for closing the school and informing parents and pupils/students
- have clear written procedures to protect the welfare and health of everyone likely to be in school, for example, schools may wish to tell all parents that children with flu should not attend school
- have cover arrangements for staff shortages
- set up emergency communications with parents (phone numbers, emails, website news, notice boards, and so on)
- arrange funding/budgeting for increased costs such as food, fuel, transport and supply staff

Guidance: