I know what you’re thinking, ‘why are Locate a Locum providing advice on the weather. They don’t have Barra Best working for them!’

This isn’t necessarily pharmacy related, but it does get cold, the snow does fall and sometimes we miss work because of it. You all know about the responsible pharmacist regulation, and if you can’t turn up for a shift, the pharmacy can get a fine of up to £10,000.

So, what measures can you put in place to help you service the cold of winter and increase your chances of making it to work in piece?

De-Icer

De-icer is your best friend this winter. We’ve all been there, unable to start driving until your windscreen and mirrors defrost. I’ve waited up to 20 minutes on this before, and I’ve been very late for work. Luckily, nobody’s life is at stake if I’m late. Remember to look at your back window and wing mirrors!

Keep a flask of hot water in your car

Do not pour hot water over your windows, it can crack them. That would be a disastrous start to the day. I’ve been stranded in traffic for hours on end because of the snow, and a cup of tea or coffee would’ve been appreciated. At the time, I had no flask in the car, but since then I’ve never travelled without one. It can be a life saver if you break down and you have to wait for assistance.

Get Yourself a shovel

Nothing wakes you up in the morning quite like having to stand in the cold and shovel the snow out of your drive way. Most roads in major cities and towns may receive some gritting during a cold spell. Your biggest challenge may be getting out of your drive. I live at the bottom of a hill near the mountains. Some locals gather together and help to keep our rod clear and gritted. Your local neighbourhood groups may need assistance in doing something similar, and you’ll have reap the benefits.

Only apply for shifts that you can travel to with ease

Train services can be affected if there is a snowfall. If you’re relying on trains, beware of booking shifts in areas that you need a train to travel to. Remote areas of the country may be cut off from civilisation, be careful when applying for shifts which are in areas that are prone to a heavy snowfall.

Keep warm clothing, a blanket and some food in your car

Like the flask point from earlier, you should keep some essentials in the car. Some cereal bars, water and possibly some fruit could help you to w\de out a break down during a cold snap. You should also keep a thick blanket, hat and gloves in the boot, just in case you break down. I’ve recently bought a portable phone charger, which will stay in the car.

Remember, apply for Locum shifts today on booking platform!