We are urging people to stay safe as weather warnings for snow and ice are set to remain in place over the weekend.

An amber cold health alert has been issued for Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire, with temperatures set to fall to as low as -4.5C in the Moorlands.

Cold snaps can often lead to frozen ponds and waterways, including canals rivers, and lakes, whilst ice and snow make driving hazardous.

Ian Read, head of prevent, protect and partnerships, said: “We are urging people not to put their lives at risk, and the lives of others at risk, by venturing onto frozen water.

“Although it may look like it is safe to walk on, it is not. It is very dangerous and can have fatal consequences.

“Avoid driving if weather conditions are extreme, but if you must drive, plan regular breaks and take an emergency snow kit with you.

“This should include jump leads, a shovel, ice scraper, first aid kit, warm clothing, torch, food and water, sturdy boots or wellingtons and a mobile phone and charger.

“Also, clear ice or snow from windows, mirrors and lights before you set off and always make sure the windscreen washer fluid is topped up.”

Warnings in force:

Whole county - Snow and Ice valid from 6pm on Saturday (4 January) until noon on Sunday (5 January) (Medium Likelihood of Medium Impact)
North of county – Snow only valid from 9pm on Saturday (4 January) until 11.59pm on Sunday (5 January) (High Likelihood of Medium Impact)
Whole county – UKHSA Cold Weather Alert.

For more advice on driving in winter, visit: https://www.staffordshirefire.gov.uk/your-safety/safety-outside/driving-safely-in-the-winter/

It’s also important to heat your homes safely during the cold weather. Guidance on how to do so can be found here: https://www.staffordshirefire.gov.uk/news/posts/be-warm-be-safe-this-winter/