Ambulance boss: ‘Take care in cold snap’

The East of England Ambulance Service says taking simple measures will reduce the risk of a medical emergency.

Neil Storey, operations director, said people should “keep warm, keep well, be prepared and avoid unnecessary outings”.

“While we are prepared for bad weather with tried and tested plans to manage it, inevitably it challenges emergency service resources and can affect response times if only because it is more difficult to get around,” he said.

“But simple things make a big difference to people, such as keeping yourself warm at home, ensuring you have enough heating oil or meter credit if necessary, keeping medicines stocked up and making sure you have grit and salt.

“Drivers should double check their vehicle is ready for ice and snow, with the correct tyres fitted and inflated and a boot stocked with de-icer and a scraper as well as a flask, water and blankets in case of breakdown. Even with all these precautions please be extra careful on the roads to avoid skids but don’t go outside – walking or driving – in severe weather unless you really need to.

“If you do need to take a walk wrap up warm and wear sturdy, non-slip footwear.

“People should also look out for their neighbours, particularly if they are elderly or living alone.”