With the first of this year's freezes settling in, you're probably stockpiling salt for your path or steps. Drivers will be digging out the de-icer and shovelling out the driveway. We're doing everything we can to keep roads and pavements safe. Here's a quick guide to how.

The gritting and clearing system is based on the weather forecast. If snow or a freeze is predicted, we send out the fleet. We start with the main (primary) roads and pavements, and the next busiest (secondary) roads and pavements are treated as soon as possible afterwards.

When ice turns to snow, all snowploughs are mobilised. While snow is still falling, our priority is those main routes. Once it has stopped we treat all routes in line with the priorities for gritting. If necessary, for example if it rains before a freeze, the fleet will remain out to treat all areas as often as needed to keep them safe.

Of course, it's not possible to treat every single road and pavement in North Lanarkshire at the same time - we just don't have the resources. So we also provide ways in which you can help yourself in wintry weather - literally.

There are salt bins located across North Lanarkshire from which you can take your own supply of salt and grit for your pavements, paths, driveways and steps. And if it's easier for you, you can also visit our depots, which provide salt for personal use free of charge. See the links on the right for information about your nearest depot.

When it comes to keeping warm and safe in winter conditions, try agencies like the NHS, the AA, RoSPA and Strathclyde Police for tips on staying warm, avoiding falls and driving safely. For more information about these, or about any of our winter maintenance services, use the contacts and links on the right.