Gritting, snow and ice

Find advice on getting ready for winter and clearing snow and ice from paths and driveaways on the Scottish Government's website. 

Hints and tips for the best and safest way to clear snow and ice

• Wear warm clothes and footwear with good grip.
• Wear bright and visible clothing so drivers and other road users can see you. 
• Try to clear snow and ice early. It's easier to clear loose snow and the sun will help melt ice.
• Clear a small path down the middle of the pavement for a safe surface to walk on then shovel from the centre to the kerbside. Don't block paths, driveways or drains.
• Use salt or sand to grit. Follow our 
  • Use ordinary table salt, buy bags of rock salt from DIY shops or find your nearest grit bin.
  • Use more salt on steps and steep pathways.
  • Sand gives a good grip, but won't stop the path from icing over.
  • Salting areas before snow falls makes snow clearance easier not water as it will freeze.
  • Do not use water to clear snow or ice as it will freeze.
• Find your nearest grit bin and how to use it.