Last year, Fire Control Operators received several calls to incidents where people had been caught out in the snow and icy conditions and are preparing to deal with further busy conditions this year.

Acting Chief Fire Officer Huw Jakeway said:

“During periods of bad weather we would ask for people to be extra vigilant to ensure their safety and heed any advice given to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary journeys.

"Whilst remaining in their homes cold conditions it's likely that extra heaters that have been stored away or possibly candles will be used.  If doing so, please ensure these are not placed too close to other items that could potentially catch fire, like curtains, clothes or items of furniture.

"Candles should be placed firmly within their holders on a flat, stable and heat resistant surface like a dinner plate and they should never be left unattended."

 South Wales Fire and Rescue Service advise the following:

 Weather reports

Keep an eye on weather reports on local television or radio news channels.  Do not travel in heavy snow storms unless absolutely necessary.

 Family and neighbours

Look after family and elderly neighbours to ensure they are keeping safe and warm.  

Frozen rivers, ponds and lakes

Do not attempt to walk on frozen lakes and rivers.  While the ice may seem sturdy and able to support weight it can become very thin very quickly.  The surface can easily crack, give way and individuals can fall through.  The consequences could be fatal.

Dogs should be kept under control, on leads, when being exercised near water and prevented from walking on ice or entering water during the cold weather.

Frozen ponds and lakes are extremely dangerous. If you see someone, or a pet, fall through the ice and get into difficulty never try to rescue them yourself.  Instead phone 999 immediately.

Winter driving

Motorists need to pay due care and attention on the roads in the winter and be able to adapt to changing conditions.  Even the most experienced drivers can find themselves getting into difficulties when the roads are icy.

Ask yourself whether your journey is really necessary.

Before you set off on your journey:

• Make sure your vehicle is in winter roadworthy condition.  
• Check that your tyres meet the legal requirements.  Tyres that do not have the legal tread will seriously affect your car’s traction and steering.  
• Clear ALL snow and ice from all of your windows. Remember, you must be able to see in all directions.
• Check brakes, lights, oil and washer fluid levels.
• Make sure your mirrors are clear, and the windows are demisted thoroughly.
• Take an ‘Emergency Kit’ of De-Icer, Ice scraper, torch, extra warm clothing, jump leads and shovel. Also carry wellingtons or boots and weatherproof clothing, a warm drink and a fully charged mobile phone in case of a breakdown.
  

If you must travel in wintry weather remember to:

Drive extremely carefully and avoid sudden actions as these could lead to loss of control:

• Slow down and leave plenty of room to stop, keeping well back from the road user in front. Stopping distances can be up to 10 times greater than on dry roads.
• Drive slowly on snow in the highest gear possible, remembering to only accelerate and brake very gently to avoid skidding.  If your wheels do lock, ease off the brakes.
• Turn on your lights to increase your visibility to other motorists..
• Never overtake snowploughs or gritting lorries.  The drivers have limited visibility, and you are likely to find that the road in front of them is worse that the road behind.
• Do not assume your vehicle can handle all conditions.  Even four-wheel drive vehicles can encounter trouble on winter roads.
• Allow more time than normal to complete the journey.

If you get stuck in snow:

• Do not spin your wheels. This will only dig you in deeper. Turn your wheels from side to side a few times to push snow out of the way.
• Use a light touch on the accelerator to ease your car out.
• Use a shovel to clear snow away from the wheels and the underside of the car.
• Pour sand, gravel or salt in the path of the wheels – or even use your foot mats – to help get traction.
• If you must leave your car, arrange to have it recovered as soon as possible.  If you think it is in a place that may pose a danger to other road users, call the police to let them know.