Islington Council’s winter gritting team is ready for action if the forecast cold snap arrives in the middle of February.
If the snow does begin to fall, residents can rest assured that roads, road junctions, bus stops, schools roads, hospitals will be pre-gritted before the bad weather arrives.
To help ensure the best possible service the council has bought two new gritters, which can each hold up to 5.6 tonnes of grit. This year, Islington Council is using an innovative, environmentally friendly product called safecoat to tackle freezing roads this year. The product is grit coated with a 'syrup' derived from molasses and will help to reduce the environmental damage often associated with winter gritting.
Islington has so far used 226 tonnes of salt and expects to use another 350 tonnes before the end of winter.
Councillor Bridget Fox, Executive member for sustainability, said: “It's been great to see at first hand how well-prepared Islington is for any bad weather to come. Our gritters are on standby 24 hours a day, 7 days a week during winter, to ensure that our roads are as safe as possible. Should snow arrive, the council is ready, but we will also be asking drivers to be extra vigilant and all residents to bear in mind the weather forecast and take care when travelling.â€
The council's road safety unit also issued the following reminder to motorists:
If you are going on a long haul journey during this time, do make sure to take a blanket, boots and a spare set of clothing and even a small shovel in the boot of the car.
Ask yourself if your vehicle is prepared for a sudden and dramatic change in the weather?
Remember that although main roads may be gritted, the smaller roads may not be, so take extra care on local routes.
Leave extra space between yourself and the vehicle in front in case of sudden braking or ice on the road.
Try to avoid non essential journeys in bad weather conditions.
Additives: Add anti-freeze to the radiator and winter additive to the windscreen washer bottle.
Battery: Ensure that your battery is kept fully charged.
Lights: Make sure that all lights are working and keep them free from frost, ice, and snow and that they are kept free from dirt caused by the spray from other vehicles.
Tyres: Your tyres should be at the correct pressure and have plenty of tread depth (including the spare).
Wipers: Change your wiper blades if they are worn.
If you would like any further advice or information please ring 020 7527 2000 or email contact@islington.gov.uk
Further information (including the Winter Plan) is available on the council's website at: www.islington.gov.uk
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Page Last Updated: 29 July 2008