Motorists warned to make essential journeys only (From Evesham Journal)

Motorists warned to make essential journeys only

2:31pm Wednesday 6th January 2010

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With temperatures due to plummet well below freezing later today, the message to motorists is to make essential journeys only.

The county’s emergency services along, with Herefordshire Council and NHS Herefordshire, are meeting regularly to review the situation and make plans to ensure key services are maintained and communities supported throughout the spell of wintery weather.

Superintendent Kevin Purcell, of West Mercia Police said: “The key message today is that people should seriously consider whether they have to venture out on the county’s roads.”

“Temperatures have been hovering around zero this morning and are due to fall well below freezing this afternoon. Road conditions will become treacherous and we don’t want people putting themselves at risk of having an accident when it’s avoidable,” he added.

“Our message is to stay at home if possible and only go out if it’s an urgent journey. Don’t get caught out even on short journeys. If you have to travel, then make sure you take plenty of warm clothing, food and hot drinks.”

The West Midlands Ambulance Service NHS Trust has backed this call warning that iced-up untreated roads and pavements will be very slippery – so people should take care to avoid the risk of slips, trips and falls if they have to venture out on foot.

The Trust is also urging people to only use 999 if a situation is life-threatening – anyone requiring medical treatment should consider using parts of the NHS other than A&E and the 999 service.

People can get advice on their condition from their local pharmacist or GP and should also consider calling NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or visiting it on-line at www.nhs.uk.

Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service is advising homeowners to take care when using portable electric heaters.

“The prolonged cold spell is forcing many people, who wouldn’t ordinarily use an electric heater, to dig them out and plug them in. Care should be taken – and we’re also advising that people check their smoke alarms – it only takes a few seconds, but can save lives,” said a spokesman.

Residents are also being advised to check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be more vulnerable to cold weather, which is especially dangerous for older people or people with serious illnesses.

People with heart or respiratory (breathing) problems may have worse symptoms during a cold spell and for several days after temperatures return to normal.

To keep warm and well during the current snowy weather: • Keep curtains drawn and doors closed to block out draughts.

• Have regular hot drinks and at least one hot meal a day if possible. Eating regularly helps keep energy levels up during winter. • Wear several light layers of warm clothes (rather than one chunky layer). • Keep as active as possible.

• Wrap up warm if you need to go outside on cold days.

Keep your home at the recommended temperature of 18–21°C (64–70°F).

If you can’t heat all the rooms you use, heat the living room during the day and the bedroom just before you go to sleep.

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