Heavy snow and ice storms

Snow and ice act mainly in two ways: through their weight and through slipperiness. Wet, heavy snow weighs considerably more than light powder snow, and when rain falls into a snow cover, it soaks it up like a sponge. The load on roofs, trees and lines therefore grows with every hour. How much a roof can bear depends on its construction and the type of snow – only professionals can judge that.

Freezing rain forms when rain falls through a warm layer of air and then meets cold air and frozen ground near the surface. The drops are supercooled and freeze the moment they hit something. This forms a smooth, often barely visible layer of ice on roads, pavements, branches and lines. Under this load branches break and lines snap – which is why freezing rain often leads to power cuts.

At the same time the risk of falling rises, both on foot and in the car. Many accidents in winter storms are therefore not dramatic events but falls, overexertion when shovelling snow and poisonings from improperly used heat sources. Exactly these accidents can be avoided with simple rules.

Preparation starts in autumn. Lay in supplies for a few days, plus blankets, torches, a battery-powered radio, grit and a snow shovel. Equip the car for winter and protect water pipes in unheated rooms from frost. Think about what you will do if the heating fails – because in a power cut many modern heating systems stop working too.

When there is a warning, stay at home if possible. Postpone journeys, charge devices and check that there is enough medication. Ask older neighbours whether they need anything. If the heating fails, keep one room warm, close the doors to the other rooms and wear several layers of clothing.

When clearing snow: little and often is better than a lot at once. Shovel small amounts, take breaks and keep not only the paths but also the heating's vent openings clear. When walking, small steps, sturdy shoes with tread and free hands help, so you can catch yourself. Under eaves, watch out for sliding snow and icicles.

Carbon monoxide is one of the greatest dangers in winter. It is produced by any burning, is colourless, odourless and can be deadly indoors. Never use a grill, gas heater, camping stove or generator for heating in the home, the garage or a tent. Keep flues and the exhaust of a stationary car clear of snow. With headache, dizziness or nausea, get into fresh air at once and call the local emergency number (112 in the EU). A carbon monoxide alarm is a sensible addition.

Do not climb onto snowy or icy roofs – the risk of falling is high. If there is creaking under a heavy snow load, cracks appear or ceilings sag, leave the building and call professionals or the fire service. In freezing rain, avoid paths under trees and overhead lines, because branches and lines can break under the weight of the ice.

Shovelling snow is heavy physical work, especially with wet snow and in the cold. Take breaks and dress warmly. If you have chest pain, stop at once and get help. If you get stuck in your car, stay in the vehicle and keep the exhaust clear so that no exhaust fumes get into the car.

A typical scenario: freezing rain overnight, everything is as smooth as glass in the morning, and the power is out in several places. If you have supplies at home, you can simply stay inside until gritting has been done. If you have to go out, walk slowly, avoid paths under trees and expect buses and trains not to be running.

Another scenario: days of snowfall in an upland region. Roads are closed at times, and getting to the supermarket is no longer possible. A stock for a few days, a radio for news and a plan for heating failure make the difference between inconvenience and real danger.

Older people and people living alone are particularly at risk. They fall more easily, get cold faster and often cannot clear snow or go shopping themselves. A phone call or a short visit, a shovelled path or some shopping brought along are simple but very effective forms of help.