A MAJOR warning has been issued to the Irish public as the country braces for an Arctic snap - with elderly people especially urged to listen. The HSE have warned people to take extra care during the cold weather to avoid slipping and falling. The advice comes as the entire country is bracing for a snow blitz in the coming days.
Temperatures are expected to hit as low as -10C in some places and every county has been placed under a status yellow weather warning . With snow and ice predicted to hit over the weekend, roads and pathways are likely to be slippy and dangerous. Health bosses have urged the public to do all that they can to avoid injuries from falling over.
And they said that older and vulnerable people "should not venture outdoors" in severe weather conditions if possible. Relatives and neighbours have been asked to check up on elderly and vulnerable people during the cold snap. The HSE said there are steps that people can take over the chaotic period that will help them to stay healthy.
They advise keeping warm, eating well, and avoiding unnecessary travel. And health bosses said that drinking fluids and eating hot food is another major bonus. They also emphasised the importance of having plenty of food and medicine should you need it.
Another tip is to have "adequate" fuel supplies in your home so that it can stay heated during the Baltic conditions. And the public should always carry a phone with them if they go outside and wear non slip footwear. The HSE said: ".
