Advice about severe weather warning 05/01/10

THAMES Valley Police and its partners have issued the following advice to residents and motorists, following a severe weather warning issued by the Met Office for heavy snow falls during the next 12 hours.

Most importantly, do not travel unless it is absolutely essential you do so. If you decide you must travel, remember to ensure your car is fully fuelled and that you have packed warm clothes, blankets, food and drink, and your mobile phone and in car phone charger to allow you to communicate with your friends and relatives if you do get stuck.

If you do decide to travel and subsequently find yourself stuck in a position whereby the highway obstruction prevents emergency services and gritting vehicles access, your vehicle may be recovered by either the Highways Agency or Thames Valley Police and there will be a cost implication.

Emergency calls for police, fire and ambulance services should be made in genuine emergency situations only. If you feel unwell, make use of NHS Direct. Only call an ambulance if advised to do so.

In addition to the obvious hazards on the road network, please also remember the dangers of trying to walk on iced ponds and lakes ? not only to yourself but to subsequent rescue attempts.

The last snowfall two weeks ago also brought some power disruption. In the event of losing supplies, please have access to torches rather than candles to prevent the risk of fire and consider the welfare of your neighbours ? some of whom may be elderly or vulnerable.

The public are advised to tune into local media broadcasts for updates on the situation in their area and what facilities may be available for stranded or vulnerable people.

If you need to contact Thames Valley Police for specific advice please call 0845 8 505 505 or contact your local authority.

Photo: Courtesy of www.cse.org.uk