Islanders are being asked to only venture out in the current freezing weather if they really need to. Older people in particular are asked to take special care as a slip, trip or fall can be very significant for them.
Head of the Island’s Ambulance Service, Chris Smith, says: “Roads, pavements, driveways and garden paths are treacherous today. The mixture of rain, slush from Friday’s snow and freezing weather has created a lot of ice. Our ambulance’s are responding to a significant number of calls and due to the weather conditions it is taking them slightly longer to get there as extra care has to be taken. Islanders, expecially our older residents and visitors, can assist by only venturing out if they absolutely have to. If you do have to go out then please wrap up warm, allow plenty of time, wear footwear which provides a good grip and take lots of care.”
A press release, warning of the cold weather, issued on 17th December outlined the practical steps Islanders can take to minimise the risks to themselves during periods of cold weather:
· Have regular hot drinks and at least one hot meal a day – if possible, eating regularly helps to keep energy levels up during winter
· Wear several light layers of warm clothes
· Keep as active as possible
· Remember to wrap up warm if you need to go outside on cold days