Posted on Friday 3rd January 2025
Staffordshire County Council's fleet of 38 gritters will be out in force this weekend, as Amber Alerts for cold weather, snow and ice have now been issued.
People are being reminded to stay warm and well, to look out for vulnerable neighbours, and take care when outside, as Amber Alerts for both cold weather, snow and ice have now been issued.
The Cold Weather alert for the West Midlands remains in place until 8 January and health chiefs warn that cold weather can have a serious impact on health for older people and for younger people with long-term health conditions.
Now the Met Office has upgraded the warning of winter conditions for the whole county from Saturday evening, with snow in the north of the county from 9pm on Saturday and all day on Sunday.
Jeremy Pert, Cabinet Member for Health and Care at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“Prolonged cold weather can have serious health implications for some of the most vulnerable people in our communities and it’s important that we do what we can to keep ourselves, our friends, family and neighbours safe.
“It looks like this cold spell will be with us until next week so please wrap up warm and take extra care especially if you’re out and about. Please also remember to check in with and keep an eye on any elderly neighbours over the weekend.
“This is also a busy time too for the NHS and anyone concerned about their own or someone else’s health should contact NHS 111.”
A Met Office Amber warning for snow and ice means driving conditions could be difficult. The county council’s fleet of 38 gritters will be out in force and anyone travelling is being asked to take extra care and to allow extra time for journeys.
Mark Deaville, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Strategic Highways, said:
“It’s been a very busy few days for our gritting crews who have been working around the clock to keep roads clear and the county moving.
“There are more freezing temperatures to come, along with snow over the weekend, so it’s vital that people take extra care on the roads, slow down and drive to the conditions.
“With our fleet of 38 gritters and more than 20,000 tonnes of salt stockpiled, we’re very well prepared for winter and for whatever adverse weather conditions come our way.”
Some top tips for staying warm and well during cold weather include:
- Sign up for a winter health app at Winter Pressures - Staffordshire
- Check the weather forecast and the news
- Make sure you have sufficient food and medicine in. Stay hydrated and Drink plenty of fluids with any medicine. And if concerned about your or someone else's health, contact NHS 111.
- Take simple measures to reduce draughts at home
- Heat rooms you spend most time in, to 18 ̊C if you can
- Keep bedroom windows closed
- Wear multiple layers of thinner clothing