Harrow Borough Council has announced details of its plan to deal with wintry weather.

The council’s gritting team will receive weather updates four times a day – at 11am, 5pm, 11pm and 3am – and will use this information to decide whether it is necessary to begin or continue gritting.

The team has seven gritters at its disposal which can be put on the roads within an hour, and which are available 24 hours a day.

The council has also released advice for residents during icy weather.

It is advising people to use salt or sand to melt snow and ice instead of hot water.

The reason for this is that water may freeze when it cools adding to the problem.

Harrow Borough Council is also asking that people check on elderly and disabled neighbours to make sure they are warm and stocked up with food.

Portfolio holder for environment and community safety, Councillor Phillip O’Dell, said: “Everyone in the borough can do their bit to make a difference during the cold winter, whether it’s clearing snow from outside their own home, or checking on the welfare of a neighbour.

“The council is well-prepared for the cold weather, with a good stock of salt and a dedicated gritting team.”