Finally, with the 'big freeze' expected to stretch right into the middle of spring next year it's vital to plan ahead. Panic buying often results in food wastage, but if you can stock up on tinned goods and the odd ready meal or loaf for freezing, you'll be better prepared should the weather prevent supermarkets from receiving deliveries. Newspapers have increasingly reported on likely shortages of gas, domestic oil and even petrol. In situations such as these, home owners living in isolated locations should consider investing in backup generators to prevent a black out and loss of heating should oil shortage become a reality.