Snowfall leads to travel disruption and safety warnings (From Halesowen News)

Snowfall leads to travel disruption and safety warnings

6:46pm Saturday 4th February 2012 in Black Country News

HEAVY snowfall across the Black Country has led to disruption on the roads and calls for residents to be extra careful.

There are reports of delays on all major routes due to this (Saturday) afternoon's snow fall and bus services are struggling to run as normal.

Hagley has been hit hard by snow with traffic unable to get up the hill, the A456 Kidderminster Road South Eastbound has been blocked due to snow and ice at A450 Worcester Road.

Hagley Road West in Quinton and Halesowen also saw several problems with cars unable to navigate slopes leading to several motorists abandoning their cars.

The Met Office warned 5cm of snow is expected to fall over the next 24 hours and Birmingham Airport announced there would be disruption to flights.

An amber alert has been issued for the area and temperatures are set to drop down to -1C overnight.

A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokeswoman warned local residents to be careful in the snow.

The spokesman said: “There are simple steps that the public can take to help them stay safe during this wintery weather. Make sure you wrap up warm and wear sensible footwear, helping to avoid any unnecessary slips, trips and falls.

“If the weather does take a turn for the worse and you are travelling by road this weekend, make sure you allow extra time for your journey and be extra vigilant on icy roads. If it is a longer journey then take food such as chocolate and a warm drink with you.

“People with existing medical conditions that can be aggravated by cold weather should stay warm and be prepared by making sure they have all their medications, saving any avoidable journeys.

“We also appeal for people to be aware of those who are elderly, frail or in some way vulnerable to this type of weather, be it friends, neighbours or relatives. Why not show some community spirit and ensure that people in these categories do not have to go out and risk hurting themselves by getting in any essential supplies that they might need?

“No-one wants to be a misery but although snow and ice can be a huge amount of fun, it can also be quite dangerous. Clearly playing on frozen lakes and canals can have tragic consequences if people fall on or through ice, equally we see people becoming injured in sledging accidents.

“The ambulance service historically experiences some of its busiest periods during winter, the public are asked to think before dialing 999, is your call really a serious life threatening emergency that requires an immediate 999 medical response?

“If you do need medical treatment but your condition is not life threatening, please consider using parts of the NHS other than A&E and the 999 service. Advice and treatment can be sought from pharmacist, your GP, walk in centres, minor injuries units and NHS Direct via 0845 46 47 or on-line at www.nhs.uk.”