When considering winter essentials (especially from the viewpoint of employers) a key area that is often overlooked is anti-slip, trip and fall prevention strategies.
It is true that the British winter has been somewhat subdued in its appearance this year however; with predictions of snow upon us I would strongly suggest not only developing your winter safety strategy at the earliest opportunity, but also start looking at taking advantage of the special offers BEFORE the snow falls (when prices will hit premium).
It is common knowledge that coinciding with our warmer summers are equally cooler winters; in fact the winter of 2009 has been widely accepted as being the coldest that the United Kingdom has endured for 31 years! It's all too easy to forget the widespread snow and icy road conditions that kept many indoors and prevented commuters accessing the main roads from minor, non-cleared domestic areas (especially those in the suburbs).
Simple proactive solutions to avoid a repeat of this year end include investing in; a grit bin kit, industrial rock salt, ice melt solutions and rigid snow shovels.
Think beyond winter essentials being hats, scarfs, boots and thick jumpers and start considering the wider picture.
For cul-de-sacs, closed off neighbourhoods and small closely knit communities, taking on the challenges of winter can be a fantastic way to get the community together and collectively invest in the future road maintenance and anti-slip requirements for all - thus mitigating a "not in my backyard" mentality and adding value to all.