WEST Midlands Ambulance Service is urging residents to stay safe and healthy over the coming days as temperatures continue to plummet and significant snowfall is forecast.

Paramedics are urging members of the public to wrap up warm and wear sensible footwear if they need to go out, to help avoid slips and falls.

With heavy snowfall predicted for the region tomorrow, motorists are also being advised not to undergo any unnecessary journeys and to allow extra travelling time.

Motorists should make sure they have extra items in their car over the winter months, in case of a breakdown or a delay.

An emergency pack should include an ice-scraper, torch, warm clothing, blanket, boots, first aid kit, food and drink and a snow shovel.

A spokesman for West Midlands Ambulance Service, said: “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. Every winter we’re called to people who have become injured whilst sledging. We would encourage people to just take a second to think about where they are sledging and to have fun safely. Clearly playing on frozen lakes and canals can also have tragic consequences if people fall on or through the ice.

“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.”

With the 999 service typically busier over winter months, members of the public are being asked to think before dialling the emergency line, as crews may take longer to get to the patient safely as they navigate challenging roads. Residents are also asked to consider contacting pharmacists, GPs and walk in centres for non life threatening medical issues.