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Cardiff Council

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Snow code

​​The Government has prepared a ‘Snow Code’ which provides advice on the clearance of snow and ice from pavements. 

There’s no law stopping you from clearing snow and ice on the pavement outside your home or from public spaces. It’s unlikely you’ll be sued or held legally responsible for any injuries on the path if you have cleared it carefully. 

Follow the snow code when clearing snow and ice safely.

Clear the snow or ice early in the day


It’s easier to move fresh, loose snow rather than hard snow that has been compacted from people walking on it. So if possible, start removing the snow and ice in the morning. 

If you remove the top layer of snow in the morning, any sunshine during the day will help melt any ice beneath. You can then cover the path with salt before nightfall to stop it refreezing overnight.

Prevent slips


Pay extra attention to clear snow and ice from steps and steep pathways - you might need to use more salt on these areas. 

If you clear snow and ice yourself, be careful - don’t make the pathways more dangerous by causing them to refreeze. But don’t be put off clearing paths because you’re afraid someone will get injured.

Remember people walking on snow and ice have a responsibility to be careful themselves. Follow the advice below to make sure you clear the pathway safely and effectively.

Use salt or sand - not water


If you use water to melt the snow, it may refreeze and turn to black ice.​

Black ice increases the risk of injuries as it is invisible and very slippery. You can prevent black ice by spreading some salt on the area you have cleared. You can use ordinary table or dishwasher salt - a tablespoon for each square metre you clear should work. Don’t use the salt found in salting bins - this will be needed to keep the roads clear.

Be careful not to spread salt on plants or grass as it may cause them damage. If you don’t have enough salt, you can also use sand or ash. These won’t stop the path icing over as well as salt, but will provide good grip under foot.

Take care where you move the snow


When you’re shovelling snow, take care where you put it so it doesn’t block people’s paths or drains. Make sure you make a path down the middle of the area to be cleared first, so you have a clear surface to walk on. Then shovel the snow from the centre of the path to the sides.

Offer to clear your neighbours’ paths


If your neighbour will have difficulty getting in and out of their home, offer to clear snow and ice around their property as well. Check that any elderly or disabled neighbours are alright in the cold weather. If you’re worried about them, contact us​.

Snow Event Information and Tips


There are many small steps you can take to prepare for a snow event and keep yourself informed when snow does come.

1) First of all know it is coming – Ensure you keep a close eye on weather forecasts on television, listen to local radio or go to the met office website​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​External link opens in a new window​​ for local forecasts and weather warnings.

2) If you intend travelling in snow conditions, ask yourself: 

  • Is your journey essential?
  • Have you checked the weather forecast and road conditions and carefully considered the advice given?
  • Does anyone know where you are going and when you hope to arrive?
  • Would taking warm clothing, hot drinks, food, Wellingtons, a torch and shovel be a wise precaution?
  • Are you travelling appropriately for the road conditions?
  • Are you using dipped headlights in poor visibility and snow?
  • Are you driving in the highest gear possible and avoiding harsh braking and acceleration?
  • Are you maintaining a safe stopping distance?
  • Are you keeping a careful watch on all other road users?

3) Listen in to local radio or find out if your child’s school is open or closed.

  • Is there a community group that can assist during severe weather?

5) Check on those in your family and community who are vulnerable during snow and cold weather.

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