The recent January cold spell that swept across the UK was long and persistent. As temperatures dipped and icy conditions settled in, the need for effective gritting services became more apparent than ever.
Unfortunately, many businesses and property owners left their arrangements too late, only to find themselves facing significant safety risks when the frost set in. Here we take a closer look at why timely gritting is essential, the risks associated with poor preparation, and why it's never too late to plan ahead for the winter season.
Be Prepared – Winter Isn’t Over Yet!
The mid-February forecast looks cold, with the potential for another prolonged cold snap. Your business may have been lucky so far, but accidents can happen anytime. Stay prepared – call Clearway Gritting to safeguard your business and reduce the risk of insurance claims as winter continues.
The Safety Risks of Delayed Gritting
When winter weather strikes, it's crucial to address icy conditions promptly. Without timely gritting, roads, pavements, and walkways become treacherous. The primary concern in such conditions is the formation of black ice – a thin, nearly invisible layer of ice that can form even in relatively mild temperatures.
Black ice is particularly dangerous because it is so hard to see, leading to a higher risk of slips, trips, and falls. In fact, according to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), slips, trips, and falls make up a significant portion of workplace injuries every year.
The risks extend beyond pedestrians. Drivers also face increased dangers when roads remain untreated, leading to accidents, delays, and disruptions. A timely gritting service ensures that surfaces remain clear and safe, reducing the likelihood of these accidents occurring.
Key Areas That Need Gritting
It's not just roads that need attention during freezing conditions. A well-structured gritting plan must cover all surfaces that may be used by pedestrians and vehicles. Pavements, car parks, and access points to buildings should all be treated with grit to ensure safety. Without proper coverage, you risk creating dangerous cold spots that could lead to injuries or property damage.
Local councils, as advised by the Local Government Association (LGA), typically grit major roads and high-risk areas during cold spells. But for private businesses and property owners, it's essential to ensure that all areas – especially those with high foot traffic or vehicle movement – are included in your gritting schedule.
Recent Weather Conditions and the Extended Cold Spell
In early January 2025, temperatures across the southeast of the UK plummeted as low as -18.9°C, with widespread snowfall and freezing conditions causing disruptions. The cold spell lasted longer than many had anticipated, stretching over several days and causing icy conditions that lingered. The Met Office confirmed that the freezing weather was intense enough to disrupt travel, school openings, and daily routines for much of the region.
These conditions underscored the importance of having a gritting service in place that can respond to long-lasting cold spells. As we saw during this cold snap, weather patterns can be unpredictable, and once the frost sets in, it can take time for temperatures to rise enough for the ice to thaw. This is where forward planning for gritting services becomes invaluable.
Planning Ahead for Continued Cold Weather
While the recent cold spell may have subsided, winter is far from over. The cold weather can continue through to March, and even a mild freeze can quickly turn roads and walkways hazardous. With this in mind, it is wise for businesses, property owners, and organisations to think ahead and arrange their gritting services now.
The Department for Transport recommends a proactive approach to gritting, advising that arrangements be in place from October through to late March. This ensures that your property remains safe, even during unexpected weather events.
The truth is, the worst of the weather could still be yet to come, and it's always better to prepare early than to leave it until the last minute when icy conditions are already causing problems.
Clearway Gritting: Ready When You Need Us
If you're unhappy with the service you've received from your current gritting provider, now is the perfect time to make a change.
The team at Clearway Gritting is fully prepared to step in at short notice, providing the level of service you need, when you need it most. We understand that winter conditions can be unpredictable, and we're here to ensure that your property is treated effectively, keeping both pedestrians and vehicles safe.
Our experienced team uses top-quality grit and equipment to deliver reliable and efficient gritting solutions tailored to the specific needs of your business or property. We pride ourselves on being responsive, professional, and flexible, so you can count on us to deliver even when the weather takes a turn for the worse.
Be Proactive and Safe
The recent cold spell has served as a stark reminder of the importance of timely gritting services. The risks associated with untreated icy surfaces are significant, but with the right preparation, you can mitigate these dangers and ensure the safety of all those who use your property.
Even as the winter season comes close to an end, by planning ahead and partnering with a trusted provider like Clearway Gritting, you can rest assured that your gritting needs will be met, regardless of what the weather throws at us.
Don’t wait until the coming cold snap catches you off guard – arrange your gritting schedule now to ensure a safe and secure environment for everyone.
