Emergency services issues cold weather advice for Bucks, Beds, and Herts

With freezing temperatures across Bucks, Beds, and Herts set to continue, emergency services are urging people to take care during the cold weather.

Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Services have issued advice for those encountering snow and icy conditions.

Driving in cold weather conditions

Drivers are being told to only drive in snow and ice when absolutely necessary and to allow for extra time for defrosting the car and driving slower than usual. They're also being advised to keep to main roads as they're more likely to be gritted.

Station Commander Trevor Gradwell-Smith adds: "Make sure that your car is packed with the essentials for winter driving, including a blanket, first aid kit, hazard triangle and a torch.

"In case of a breakdown, switch on your hazard lights and call your breakdown service. In case of an emergency such as a collision, call 999."

Staying safe around water

After three young boys tragically lost their lives last week after falling through the ice and into the lake at Babbs Mill Park in Kingshurst, Solihull, people across the three counties are also being told to avoid going onto the ice as it can be extremely dangerous if it breaks.

According to Mr Gradwell-Smith it's also important to "teach children not to go out onto ice under any circumstances and keep dogs on leads to prevent them doing so and then risking someone following them. When walking alongside water, keep back from the edge."

In the event that you do see someone fall through the ice, stay with them at the water's edge and call 999. The emergency services stress that it's important to not attempt to rescue them.

If you fall through the ice, then keeping calm and shouting for help is the best thing to do. Though if it's possible to pull yourself onto the ice and move towards the bank, then do so.

Keeping warm at home

Emergency services are also issuing advice in regards to how to keep warm at home. As well as blocking any draughts, making use of good curtains, rugs, and blankets, and ensuring the boiler is well maintained, portable or electric heaters are also an option.

But Mr Gradwell-Smith has said: "Make sure that they are bought from a reputable seller and that they are plugged into the wall socket, not an extension lead."

It's also advised to get a carbon monoxide alarm in case the appliance is releasing any toxic and invisible gas.

Your local council will also have a list of warm spaces, as well as possible financial support on their website.

Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.