Scots urged Scots urged to stay well in wintry conditions, to look after themselves and vulnerable neighbours.

NHS 24 is advising people to take a few simple steps to stay well during this blast of wintry weather and what to do if illness does strike.

With a red weather warning issued for the bulk of central Scotland up to 10 am today and an amber warning remaining for the rest of the country, forecasters are warning that the snow and freezing winds will continue to make it extremely difficult  and dangerous for people to get out and about in affected areas.

NHS 24’s Medical Director, Dr Laura Ryan advises people to keep warm and stay indoors if possible but if they feel unwell to check NHS 24’s health information service atwww.nhsinform.scot : “Because the weather is making it so difficult to get out, we would urge people to check NHS inform if they feel unwell.

“The advantage of this is that you can get help quickly without going outdoors. The self-help guides for illnesses such as fever, sore throats and diarrhoea can help you decide whether you can manage with self-care at home or you need to talk to a health professional.

“If you do need to visit your GP or local pharmacy you can get contact details from the service directory at www.nhsinform.scot – I would recommend people do this before setting off just to check local services are open. If you are going out make sure you are dressed appropriately for the weather.

Across Scotland, services have been working together to make sure people are prepared and that where possible roads are kept clear. Inevitably there is disruption to travel which means people who depend on care at home may be affected.

Dr Ryan is urging people to look in on vulnerable neighbours and relatives to check they are safe and well: “For some people these sorts of conditions can pose even more difficulties, so it’s worth checking up on older neighbours and relatives, and those with heart or respiratory (breathing) problems, to make sure they’re ok and that they are warm enough, especially at night.

“Making sure they have food and medicines in so they don’t need to go out is good and if you can get to the shops for them, it’s a good idea to pick up anything they may need. At times like this neighbours really can be a lifeline but if you’re worried about someone you can contact your local council or call the Age UK helpline on 0800 12 44 222.”

The Ready Scotland website also has useful information on how to cope with extreme weather https://www.readyscotland.org/are-you-ready/severe-weather/at-home/keeping-safe-and-warm/

You can follow NHS 24 on Facebook and Twitter for updates and information on services too.

Up to date weather forecasts from the Met Office: https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/

Police Scotland for travel and emergency information: www.scotland.police.uk