Winter weather

We have put together some useful information to keep you warm and well during the cold weather. The best way to get through winter is to keep warm and to follow a healthy lifestyle.

Latest weather

You can find weather updates on the Met Office's website.

School closures

You can find out about school closures in severe weather on Lancashire County Council's website.

Before the onset of cold weather

• check that your home is adequately insured and that everything that you want to be covered is covered
• make sure your property is in good order
• learn how and where to turn off your water, electricity and gas supplies
• collect and maintain an emergency pack
• the Met Office has some advice on getting ready for winter.

Home emergency pack

Our suggestion is to try and keep enough of the following in your house to last all of you at least 2 days:

• lighting (torch/candles) and spare source of power (batteries etc.)
• cooking equipment (including tin-opener, utensils and cutlery)
• drink (cans of juice, bottled water etc.)
• long life food, (check use-by date and refresh supplies regularly)
• portable radio and spare batteries
• blankets
• dry clothing
• medication (including baby items)

What should I do if the weather conditions deteriorate?

• check the TV (news), radio and newspapers for the latest information and early warnings
• stock up on essentials such as the suggested Emergency Pack above. Make essential journeys only
• if you must travel, make sure that you are fully prepared for all events and conditions
• obtain a weather forecast and if possible determine the road conditions for the journey you are going to take
• offer assistance to less able neighbours
• wrap up warm in several thin layers
• conserve energy by using one room and maintaining its temperature at 15º/20º Celsius (60º/70º Fahrenheit)
• have at least 1 hot meal a day
• fill some clean containers with fresh water in case supply fails

Protect your home in winter

United Utilities have published an information leaflet on how to protect your home in winter.

Driving in freezing conditions

Winter weather can be extremely hazardous for people using the borough's roads. In Chorley, Lancashire County Council is responsible for maintaining and managing the highway network. The Highways Agency has more advice to offer on driving in winter conditions.

Cold weather payments 

These are issued during periods of very cold weather to help towards heating costs. A set amount is automatically paid to any eligible person each week of very cold weather.

Winter fuel payments

These are intended to help towards the costs of extra heating, used during the winter to keep warm. An annual payment is made to eligible people. Most payments are made automatically but some people may need to claim them. The GOV.UK website has more information and advice winter fuel payments.. 

Further help and advice

The GOV.UK website issues 'Keep Warm, Keep Well' advice which includes how to keep warm, contacts for key organisations offering practical solutions, financial assistance and safety advice.