Coping with extreme weather

Gritting and salting 

We decide when to grit by analysing regular weather reports and hazard alerts from the Met Office and MeteoGroup.

Each year, we update our Winter Service Plan which sets out how we ensure the safe passage of vehicles on priority routes. 

Find your nearest salt bin

If ice and snow is making roads or footpaths dangerous, you can find a nearby salt bin and use the salt to treat the area.

Salt bins are usually found on quieter roads in places where the footways are steep or where problems are known to exist. The salt provided is for use by members of the public on public roads or footpaths. Please do not use it on private land.

You can report an issue on our roads due to cold weather on our website. 

For more advice, read the Government 'Snow Code'.

Winter weather can affect driving conditions, make sure you are getting around safely by following the advice from the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) which also has useful information on minimising the chances of your car breaking down. 

You can also find more advice on driving in the snow in The Highway Code. Find the latest traffic updates on the Highway Agency's website.

For cold weather alerts and updates please visit the Met Office website which also has useful information on how to prepare your home for winter weather. 

For the latest information on train and buses visit the Transport for London's website.

Schools in bad weather

Schools will only close in bad weather if:

• too few staff can get in (because transport isn't running or roads are closed).
• the school building has been damaged and is unsafe.
• the school has no heating or lighting.
• parents should look at individual school websites for up to date information.

Can you help?

Volunteer 'snow friends' keep their communities moving during the winter months by clearing snow and gritting paths. Last year over 50 residents took part.
To become a snow friend please email rbk.rangers@kingston.gov.uk or call 020 8547 5000 and leave your details to register.