With Storm Emma approaching, and an orange and yellow weather warning in effect in some areas, households are being told to be prepared for heavy snow.

It's going to affect the east coast first today, from the afternoon and then will move across the country in the evening. Accumulations of 4-6 cms of snow are expected in Dublin, Carlow, Kildare, Laois, Louth, Wicklow and Meath and 3cms in Kilkenny, Longford, Wexford, Offaly, Westmeath, Cork, Tipperary and Waterford. Later in the week, it's expected to be even worse with a chance that the warning could be elevated to red status. There are a number of things you can do now in preparation for low temperatures and the possibility of heavy snow showers. Bring pets inside If you're hesitant about bringing a pet inside, it has been suggested for owners to sit outside with them for a few minutes just to see how cold it really is. Then, you will realise that you need to bring them in for their safety. Stock up on food Buy food that will last longer than a few days and will be easily stored in the cupboard. Beans, tinned soup and various other non-perishable items would be best. Heat yourself first  If your house is taking longer than normal to heat, the best advice is to heat yourself first. Layer up with more clothes and a blanket, rather than waiting for the heating to fully kick in and heat the whole house. Buy a shovel Pick up a shovel in a local hard ward store in case you need to get rid of snow on your driveway or surrounding your house. It's unlikely anyone is going to get snowed in but it's better to be prepared just in case. Have a torch handy With any sort of weather event, there is the chance that your electricity could go. Have a torch handy or some candles to give yourself light. Check on neighbours Make sure any neighbours, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, have also prepared their house efficiently in preparation for the storm. Make sure you also have a list of phone numbers for local services, in the event of an emergency.