British Gas is urging households across the UK to take immediate action as a severe cold snap grips the nation, bringing with it heavy snow, ice, and plummeting temperatures.
The energy supplier has issued a list of ten crucial steps to help people stay safe, warm, and prepared during the disruptive winter weather.
Met Office Warnings Signal Widespread Disruption
The urgent advice comes as the Met Office has activated a series of significant weather warnings. An amber warning for snow is in place over parts of Scotland for Monday and Tuesday, 5th and 6th January 2026, indicating a high likelihood of travel disruption.
Furthermore, six regions in England are under a yellow weather warning for snow and ice. The forecaster warns that heavy snow showers will become more frequent, potentially merging into longer spells of snow, with accumulations of 5-8 cm possible in some areas. Icy stretches are also expected to form widely, creating hazardous conditions.
British Gas's 10-Point Winter Readiness Plan
In response to the severe forecast, British Gas has outlined a comprehensive preparedness plan for consumers. The key recommendations focus on home safety, vehicle checks, and community support.
Firstly, homeowners should protect their property by insulating any exposed pipes connected to their boiler or water supply to prevent freezing and potential bursts. It is also vital to know the location of the main stopcock to quickly shut off the water if a pipe does burst.
For those with log burners, storing extra wood indoors is advised. The company strongly emphasises checking that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working, especially when using alternative heating sources.
Preparing for the possibility of heating loss is another critical step. "While it's unlikely that a heavy snowfall will leave you without any heating, it's always worth keeping sleeping bags, blankets and warm coats handy," a British Gas spokesperson stated.
Households are also encouraged to assemble an emergency kit containing at least three days' worth of supplies. This should include:
- Medicines and a first-aid kit
- Drinking water and non-perishable food
- Extra blankets and warm clothing
- A torch with spare batteries
- A portable phone charger
Preparing Your Vehicle and Community
For drivers, ensuring your vehicle is winter-ready is essential for safety. British Gas advises checking brakes, heaters, tyres, and windscreen wipers before embarking on any journey in the cold weather.
Finally, the energy giant highlights the importance of community spirit during severe weather events. They urge people to check in on elderly or vulnerable neighbours and relatives to ensure they have everything they need.
"When severe weather hits, you might find yourself stranded away from home," they added. "So plan how you'll stay in contact with the rest of your household and where you'll meet if you can't get home due to heavy snow."
With the cold spell set to continue, following this practical advice can help mitigate risks and ensure communities are better equipped to handle the challenging conditions.
