Get prepared for winter’s icy blast

Colder weather is here so now is the time for everyone to get ready for winter.

North Lanarkshire Council and its partner Amey is monitoring weather forecasts daily to assess when and where the road network should be salted.

A fleet of 31 gritter lorries and 27 tractors with gritting and snow clearing capacity are now on stand-by to treat roads and paths when required, with 20,000 tonnes of salt in storage.

In addition, more than 2,300 grit bins across the area have been filled for residents to help keep paths and local streets clear.

Schools have been provided with salt supplies to keep playgrounds and entrances clear of snow and ice.

Across the council, 85 4x4 vehicles are available to cope with snowy and icy conditions, particularly to help home care teams reach elderly and vulnerable people in poor weather.

“As temperatures drop this month, it’s a reminder to us all to be prepared for the winter weather ahead,”said Councillor Michael Mcpake, convener of the council’s Infrastructure Committee.

“The council has all its winter plans in place to ensure our services can manage the impact of winter weather conditions, and we’re reminding residents to take time now to get ready. Don’t wait until the snow and ice arrive, prepare now. If you drive regularly, have a winter emergency kit available, keep your mobile charged, and before setting out on any journey, check traffic reports and public transport information. As always, we also ask residents to look out for elderly or vulnerable neighbours during the winter. A simple gesture like checking they’re okay and offering to get any shopping they need, could make all the difference.”