Make sure you're prepared for bad weather

Should your waste or recycling collections be disrupted by snowy or icy conditions, please leave your bin out and we will get to it as soon as we can.

We will post updates on our website, and on our Facebook and Twitter pages.

We have pulled together some key information to help you prepare for any severe weather we may experience over the coming months.

Clearing snow and ice yourself - the 'snow code'

There's no law stopping you from clearing snow and ice on the pavement outside your house or from public spaces. If you have cleared it carefully, it's unlikely you'll be sued or held legally responsible for any injuries on the path. Remember, people walking on snow and ice have responsibility to be careful themselves.

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.

Clear the snow or ice early in the day

It's easier to move fresh, loose snow in the morning. You can then cover the path with salt before nightfall, to stop it refreezing overnight.

Use salt or sand - not water

If you use water to melt the snow, it may refreeze and turn to black ice. You can prevent this by spreading some salt on the area you have cleared.

Take care when you move the snow

When you're shovelling snow, take care not to block people's paths or drains.

Offer to clear your neighbours' paths

If your neighbour has difficulty getting in and out of their home, please offer to clear snow and ice around their property as well.

Gritting the roads

The Highways Agency, run by West Sussex County Council, is responsible for gritting the primary routes throughout Sussex.

Your winter checklist

Make sure you don't get caught out when severe weather strikes.

1. Make sure your car is roadworthy and carry a spade, blanket, map, torch, first aid kit, and emergency food and drink with you.
2. Check screen wash levels and make sure the windscreen wipers and tyres are in good condition.
3. Defrost the windscreen and windows thoroughly before you drive.
4. Leave more time for your journey, and drive slowly, leaving a good distance between your vehicle and the one in front.
5. Always carry your mobile phone with you and make sure it is fully charged.
6. If you are unfortunate enough to breakdown, ring your breakdown service and not the emergency services, unless you believe people are at risk.
7. Prepare alternative childcare arrangements in case of unexpected school closures.
8. Make regular checks on family, friends and neighbours who are more vulnerable, especially the elderly.

Flooding

In the winter months, flooding is also a common occurrence throughout the district. The Environment Agency has produced some important information about what to do when flooding strikes and what you can do to prepare for it.

You can sign up to receive free flood alerts and flood warnings direct from your telephone, mobile, email, or fax, from the agency. To register go to the Environment Agency - Flood Warning page found under offsite links.

It's impossible to completely flood-proof a property, but there are lots of things you can do to reduce flood damage. The Environment Agency have many useful guides and plans that will help you prepare.

If flooding does occur, we do issue a limited number of sandbags to private residents - these will be issued to the most urgent cases. Please be aware that in most cases you will be charged for this service.