Households urged to change shoes on Thursday

Households are being advised to take precautions in snow and ice (Image: Getty)

Households across the UK are being urged to change their shoes to studier footwear on Thursday as several snow and ice warnings are in force.

An amber warning for snow is currently in place until 9pm today, affecting parts of North East England and Yorkshire and the Humber, while multiple yellow warnings for snow and ice are also in force. The Met Office has warned that “winter hazards” are likely over the next few days, with temperatures forecast to get as low as -10C in rural parts of Scotland on Thursday evening, while daytime temperatures will generally be in low single figures for many parts of the country. The snow and ice is expected to make travel conditions difficult, with households in areas covered by the amber warning advised to only drive if the journey is essential.

For those travelling on foot, the Met Office’s Weather Ready advice urges anyone heading out in the snow and ice to change into sturdy footwear to help avoid slips and falls.

Dr Ron Cook, NHS 24 Executive Medical Director said: "With icy conditions expected, we urge everyone to wrap up warmly and take extra care when outside.

"Cold weather can be particularly challenging for older people, young children, and those with long-term health conditions, so please check on neighbours and loved ones to ensure they have what they need to stay warm and safe.  

“Simple steps like wearing sturdy footwear and allowing more time for journeys can help prevent slips and falls.  Also remember cold air can also make breathing difficult for people with asthma or COPD. Keep your medication handy and try to limit time outdoors during severe cold spells.”

The Met Office recommends that people aim to leave the house five minutes earlier than usual to avoid rushing, as this increases the risk of falls, and to stick to pavements along main roads as these are likely to be less slippery.

The forecaster says to choose footwear that has a good grip, so avoid anything that has a smooth, flat sole and heels, including leather and plastic-soled shoes.

Instead, opt for boots that have a large tread, and soles with deep lugs for maximum grip on slippery surfaces, such as walking boots.

Advice from the British Chiropractic Association explains: “Footwear should have a solid and large, raised treads on the sole; essential for maximising your grip on the ice.

“Shoes with support features are important – walking shoes with a firm ankle support are ideal as they help prevent you ‘going over’ on your ankle and help you feel more stable in slippery conditions. If shoes have laces, they should be firmly laced to give a close fit without limiting the circulation.

“What to avoid – Wellingtons can be practical, but they often don’t give enough support and can be difficult to take off. Also avoid walking outside in leather or other, smooth soled shoes.”