The emergency co-ordination service 112 Andalucia has managed, between midnight and twelve noon today, a hundred incidents due to snow and wind in the provinces of Almeria, Granada and Jaén, where the orange warning for snow is still in force.
Most of the calls received have been related to the accumulation of snow on roads, stranded drivers, falls and the displacement of elements of urban furniture, but without any reports of personal damage so far.
The province with the highest number of calls has been Granada, with a total of 69; followed by Almería (17) and Jaén, with a dozen.
TIPS THAT SAVE LIVES
Emergencies 112 Andalucia offers a series of tips and recommendations to minimise the adverse effects that snowfall can have on the population. It is important to have adequate footwear and clothing and check, before the arrival of the snow, the state of roofs and heating systems
It is advisable to disconnect the electrical devices that are not necessary, as well as keep the stopcocks open to prevent water from freezing in the pipes. As far as possible, it is best to stay at home, especially children and adults.
If it is necessary to go outdoorsit is better to wear several layers of light and warm clothes superimposed, before under single one of thick fabric. It is important to avoid tight clothing, to allow air to circulate and act as an insulator.
If snow falls the best thing to do is not use the car, but if it is inevitable, it is best to do it accompanied and learn about the state of the roads before starting out. Emergencies 112 Andalucia recommends driving with a full tank of fuel, keeping the exhaust pipe clean of snow, checking the brakes, tyres, lights, antifreeze and carrying snow chains for the wheels(to put them in case of hard snow or ice). After a snowfall you should drive with the utmost caution, do not brake in wet areas, or make sudden changes in the direction that can cause the loss of control of the vehicle.
Motorists should keep in mind that if snow surprises them in the car and away from a town, it is best to stay inside the vehicle to protect themselves; If you keep the engine running with the heating on, you must avoid falling asleep and always leave a small gap in a window open to renew the air and avoid possible poisoning for gases.
Finally, the public is reminded that rumours or exaggerated information about the situation should not be spread and in case of any emergency situation you should use the toll-free number 1-1-2, that can be called any day of the year, at any time to request help.