WILTSHIRE Fire & Rescue Service is advising everyone to take extra care in the current cold weather and keep an eye on vulnerable neighbours.

At home, if you are thinking of using open fires or woodburners for heating, check that the chimney is sound and clean. If you have a thatched roof, check that the chimney is clear of obstructions and reduce any risk of sparks landing on the thatch.

On the roads, there remains the risk of overnight freezing of road surfaces as the snow melts in many places. This will produce very dangerous driving conditions, even on the larger roads as salt supplies become depleted.

If you have to drive at all, please be aware of potential black ice. Only call any of the emergency services if absolutely necessary – they have to travel on icy roads too!

When planning your journey, take proper clothing, a fully charged mobile phone if you have one, and a hot drink.

Previous warnings about the dangers of walking or playing on frozen ponds, lakes or rivers still apply - please keep animals under control and ensure children are supervised near these areas.

Do look out for family members and your neighbours, and especially those vulnerable to the current weather.