| BBC Local Radio has traditionally swung into action when bad weather strikes and in the early days its service during heavy snow became legendary. Stations exploit the open-ended structure and flexibility of their normal programme schedule to embrace information generated by a 'snowdesk' or 'floodline'. Programmes offer a regular turnover of information at set times within each hour so the public knows where to find specific details. Separate telephone numbers are publicised for callers to contribute information. Email is also encouraged. Information categories usually include... - Traffic and travel.
- Public services such as closed libraries, cancelled Meals-on-Wheels and out-patient services.
Utilities. - Listener generated cancellation and postponement of events.
- School closures.
Verification procedures are critical for school information to ensure authenticity. BBC Radio Leeds, for instance, has a colour code system for schools in its five local authority areas. Before each winter, all schools are circulated with a reminder about the service and the special telephone number or email address that teachers need to access it. No school closure message is accepted without a code, a name and a ring-back contact number. | 
