Stay Safe in the Snow

Dyfed-Powys Police are warning members of the public to take care where snow has fallen and to take sensible precautions.

Police Officers throughout Dyfed-Powys have been going the extra mile to protect residents and 4x4 vehicles are available in areas that have been worse hit by the weather, to enable officers to respond to emergency calls.

With the severe weather conditions set to continue for the rest of the day and freezing temperatures to remain over the weekend police are asking the public to use the 999 system responsibly and only in cases of real emergencies – and for all non-emergency matters call 101. Officers will be on patrol in town centres.

Chief Superintendent Huw Rees said: “We are continuing to work hard with our partners to ensure that we provide an effective service in response to incidents. I would also like to remind people of the need to take sensible precautions in heavy snow and not to place themselves at risk unnecessarily.

“We advise people to keep an eye on the weather forecast for their area and only travel when necessary. We have measures in place to respond to emergencies and are working closely with our partner agencies to reach the people that need us most.

“Whenever there are issues that arise that affect all public agencies in Dyfed Powys senior staff meet to discuss any problems or areas of concern. The group has met this morning and have reported that all essential services are running throughout the four counties. There are some changes in non-urgent services and residents are encouraged to visit the agencies websites for full details.

“The snow is forecast to clear from the west throughout the day, but snow will continue to fall in Powys. Overnight is expected to be dry, and temperatures are likely to plummet. The snow that has fallen will take time to clear as temperatures over the next few days will remain very low, particularly through the night.”

Stay safe in adverse weather conditions:
• Please do not walk on frozen ponds or lakes, the water may not be frozen underneath the surface
• Please be aware that while the roads may look clear, they may be icy.
• If the roads are treacherous and have not been treated with salt please only drive if absolutely necessary and then drive slowly and carefully, allowing extra time for your journey. If you have to travel please take a shovel, appropriate warm clothing, a hot drink, some food – and a fully-charged mobile phone.
• If you have to drive in snow or ice use your dipped headlights, try not to make harsh, jerky manoeuvres, keep in a high gear and don’t brake too fast. If you should need to abandon your vehicle make sure it does not block the carriageway for other road users.
• If you should become unwell please visit choosewellwales.org.uk for advice and guidance, before contacting your GP or calling 999.

For further information and the latest updates visit the Dyfed-Powys Police www.facebook.com/DPPolice and www.twitter.com/DyfedPowys.

Alternatively go to: www.traffic-wales.com for the latest road information. To www.metoffice.gov.uk or call 08709000100, for the most up to date weather forecast and to www.walesresilience.gov.uk for advice on staying safe and links to all other public sector agencies.