Sub-Zero Temperatures in Shropshire Set to Stay
As sub-zero temperatures are set to stay West Midlands Ambulance Service is urging the public not travel on treacherously icy roads unless necessary.
With roads around the Region littered with abandoned vehicles following the significant snow fall, the public are being asked to ensure that they take extra precautions if they do need to venture out.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman said: “If you do have to travel by road, please ensure you take warm clothing, sensible footwear, a shovel and snow chains (if you have them) with you. If it is a longer journey then take food such as chocolate and a warm drink with you. If you have to go out on foot, please avoid the risk of slips, trips and falls by wearing appropriate footwear and taking extra care.
“Ambulance staff are having to use those same roads to get to 999 emergencies. Progress on blue lights can be severely hampered by snow and ice so we would ask drivers to act responsibly when they see or hear an ambulance or any other blue light vehicle.
“We have already seen many examples of community spirit over the last few days; we would appeal for people to be aware of those who are elderly, frail or in some way vulnerable to this type of weather condition whether they are friends, neighbours or relatives.
“Why not show some community spirit and ensure that people in these categories do not have to go out and risk hurting themselves by getting in any essential supplies that they might need.
“One of the best ways to warm up is to try and keep active. A few gentle exercises at home can keep the blood flowing properly. Keeping your house warm, extra layers of clothing, regular hot drinks and meals are also ways to keep warm in such cold weather.”
“No-one wants to be a misery but although snow and ice can be a huge amount of fun, it can also be quite dangerous. Clearly playing on frozen lakes and canals can have tragic consequences but equally we see people becoming injured in sledging accidents.
“The ambulance service is doing everything is can to ensure it is business as usual but we need people to use the service wisely so that we can ensure that we provide those with serious and life threatening conditions with the appropriate level of service.
”If you do need medical treatment, please consider using parts of the NHS other than A&E and the 999 service. The NHS is extremely busy at present due to the cold weather; please get advice on your condition from a pharmacist, your GP NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or on-line at www.nhs.uk If you need treatment, consider using a walk in centre or minor injuries unit.”
