POLICE are urging residents to stay safe in the current snow snap as officers experience an increase in demand.

Simon Tomlinson

POLICE are urging residents to stay safe in the current snow snap as officers experience an increase in demand.

A spokeswoman for Suffolk police said: “If you are planning a night out over the weekend please think about your safety - don't over do it, try to stay with your friends and make arrangements to get home.

“This could be by appointing a designated driver, booking a taxi or using public transport. Please wrap up warm have a safe and enjoyable night.

“While we do not wish to spoil anyone's fun during the wintry weather, we would advise anyone throwing snowballs to be mindful of other people and their property.

“We want everyone to stay safe and to enjoy the snow, but please refrain from throwing snowballs at buildings, vehicles and people as they can cause injury and damage.”

Children and adults were also advised to stay away from frozen ponds as there is a danger of falling through the ice.

Suffolk police also thanked a number of drivers in 4x4 vehicles who have stopped to offer help, but asked them to focus their efforts on members of the public.

Some ways in which you can support vulnerable people:

If you have any concerns at all about an elderly or vulnerable person living nearby, please knock on the door and check they are OK.

Please check to see if older people can get to the shops and have what they need in the house.

Encourage people to use their heating, drop in some essential supplies or extra blankets if you can, and make sure that driveways and steps are ice free.

If you have serious concerns, contact the emergency services.

During wintry weather conditions:

� Ask yourself - is your journey essential?

� Check the local and national weather forecasts.

� Listen to local and national radio for travel information.

� Tell someone at your destination what time you expect to arrive.

Make sure you are equipped with warm clothes, food, boots and a torch. In snowy conditions, take a spade.

� Clear your windows and mirrors before you set out and carry a screen scraper and de-icer.

Vehicle condition:

In winter it is even more important to check your vehicle is well maintained and serviced.

� Keep the lights, windows and mirrors clean and free from ice and snow.

� Keep your battery fully charged.

� Add anti-freeze to the radiator and winter additive to the windscreen washer bottles.

� Make sure wipers and lights are in good working order.

� Check that tyres have plenty of tread depth and are maintained at the correct pressure.

Adjust your driving to the conditions

� Hail, heavy snow and rain reduce visibility.

� Use dipped headlights and reduce your speed.

� Dazzle from winter sun can be dangerous. Keep a pair of sunglasses handy and slow down.