Cold snaps, snow and ice can create risks. The Barcelona Fire Service works actively to advise members of the public and offer advice on self-protection, helping people to cope in the best way possible with dangerous situations which can arise when temperatures drop sharply.
While these episodes last, it is advisable to spend as little time as possible outdoors. Try and take shelter indoors, at home or in the workplace for instance. Avoid unnecessary trips outside, but if you need to get somewhere aim to use public transport. If you’re walking, bear in mind that snow and ice can cause slippery conditions under foot. Wind accentuates this danger, and the combination of cold air, snow and strong winds reduces visibility to a minimum.
It’s important to wrap up, particularly your face and your head, to avoid extremely cold air getting into your lungs. It’s also advisable to wear various layers of light and warm clothing instead of a single heavy garment, and to avoid very tight clothes.
If you’re at home:
- Keep torches and a mobile phone charged. Make sure you have food and a first aid kit too.
- Ventilate the home from time to time to avoid issues with poor quality air.
- Check the rooftop is in good condition.
- Take special care of young children and the elderly, who should not go outside.
If you’re in the car:
- Avoid unnecessary journeys and if you have to travel, try not to do so alone. It’s also best to avoid travelling at night as dangers may be more difficult to detect.
- Look for shelter and if you can’t find any, stay inside the car with the heating on and a window slightly open.
- Don’t fall asleep with the engine running.
- Clean the snow from your vehicle and the exhaust pipe.
- Fit snow chains to your wheels if there is ice or hard snow.
As ever, in the case of an emergency, call 112!