Ambulance issues advice amidst snow forecast

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AMBULANCE chiefs have issued a plea to residents to stay safe as temperatures plummet.

With up to ten inches of snow expected to fall tomorrow (Friday), West Midlands Ambulance Service staff are urging the public to take simple precautions to stay safe and healthy.

Among the advice is wrapping up warm and wearing sensible footwear to help avoid slips, trips and falls while unnecessary journeys should be avoided or delayed if the weather does take a turn for the worse.

Essentials for drivers to ensure they carry include an ice scraper, torch, warm clothes and a blanket, boots, a first aid kit, battery jump leads, a snow shovel and food and drink.

A spokeswoman said: "If you really need to travel by road, make sure you allow extra time for your journey and be extra vigilant on icy and snow covered roads."

"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. Every winter we're called to people who have become injured whilst sledging.

"We would encourage people to just take a second to think about where they are sledging and to have fun safely. Clearly playing on frozen lakes and canals can also have tragic consequences if people fall on or through the ice."

She added anyone with an existing medical conditions which could be aggravated by cold weather should stay warm and ensure they have all their medications.

"We also appeal for people to be aware of those who are elderly, frail or in some way vulnerable to this type of weather, be it 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?"

Advice and treatment for conditions which are not life-threatening is available from pharmacists, GPs, walk-in centres, minor injuries units, online at www.nhs.uk and by calling 0845 46 47.

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