WITH snow constantly falling today (Friday) residents in St Albans are being warned about possible dangers as emergency services prepare for a busy weekend.

The East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) said members of the public should remain cautious whilst venturing out as heavy snowfall is predicted later today.

There have been reports of several collisions on local roads including, in Harpenden, a car which crashed into a hedge this afternoon.

A local resident, who did not want to be named, said the driver, who was not injured, collided with the hedge in icy conditions on the corner of Crabtree Lane and Marquis Lane, near the Marquis of Granby pub.

The man said there were regularly collisions on that bend when it snowed.

Latest forecasts suggest that parts of Herts, Luton and south Beds will be heaviest hit by fresh snow later this afternoon (January 18) but spells of snow will continue throughout the weekend.

Neil Storey, EEAST’s director of emergency operations advised: “Don’t go outside, walking or driving, in severe weather unless you really need to.

“If you do need to take a walk wrap up warm and wear sturdy, non-slip footwear to avoid slips, trips and falls.

“Drivers should double check their vehicle is ready for ice and snow, with the correct tyres fitted and inflated and a boot stocked with de-icer and a scraper as well as a flask, water, non-perishable snacks and blankets in case of breakdown.

“We also call on people to look in on neighbours, particularly if they are elderly or living alone. They are often the ones in most need and communities working together for each other’s good health is especially important at this very cold time.”

The ambulance service is using extra resources such as four-wheel-drive vehicles - Herts fire service is also using 4X4s in the snow - to ensure staff and patients can keep moving in the conditions.

For more advice see the Trust’s website at www.eastamb.nhs.uk