Keeping driveways and paths clear in icy weather

Published: 08 January 2026

The Met Office is advising anyone worried about their driveways or paths freezing and becoming dangerous in cold weather to "Use salt or sand, not water. If you use water to melt the snow, it may refreeze and turn to black ice. Black ice increases the risk of injuries as it is invisible and very slippery.

"If you don't have enough salt, you can also use sand or ash. These won't stop the path icing over as effectively as salt, but will provide good grip underfoot."

To prevent ice forming, salt needs to be spread in a thin, even layer before the temperature drops to freezing point – about half a cup per square metre is recommended.

If snow has already fallen, it should be shovelled away before the salt is used to make areas less slippery.

Ordinary table or dishwater salt can be used, but the salt found in yellow grit bins should not as it is intended for highways and pavements, not for private driveways or paths.

Salt can also be mixed with grit and sand when snow is particularly heavy – but it should not be piled up or spread near plants or waterways.

Focus should be given to slopes and high-traffic spots.