Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) has practical plans in place to ensure its emergency response during this period of inclement weather, but it is also urging residents to play their part in keeping safe.
With the current freezing conditions, operational staff and equipment, including vehicles with off-road capability, are ready to respond to fires and other emergencies across the county.
The Service is working in close collaboration with partners such as South Central Ambulance Service, Hampshire Constabulary, local authorities and other agencies.
Members of the public are also being urged to play their part by being good neighbours and particularly looking out for elderly and vulnerable members of the community. Checking on them and seeing if they need any shopping, so they don’t have to make any unnecessary journeys. Help to ensure they are keeping warm and clear their driveways of ice and snow, so their carers can access them safely, or if older residents do choose to venture out make sure they can do so safely.
Residents planning journeys for later today are advised to reconsider venturing out if their journey is not essential, with further snow expected until around 3pm today and overnight temperatures dipping to below freezing leading to icy roads and pavements. If you do have to travel make sure you have warm clothes and a blanket, food, water, boots, a torch, spade and a fully charged mobile phone. You should also let someone know your route and when you expect to arrive.
Overall the advice is go in, stay in tune in – regularly check the local radio and TV news and BBC websites and social media for the latest information from the emergency services and local authorities.
Hampshire County Council provide advice for older residents about keeping warm at http://www3.hants.gov.uk/adult-services/bettertime/cold-spots.htm. Any concerns about a neighbour can be reported by calling 0845 603 5630.