The Countess of Chester Hospital is advising members of the public to stay safe during the predicted hazardous weather conditions.
Widespread snowfall is expected in most parts of the UK over the next few days.
The Countess has plans in place to deal with any potential issues that come as a result of severe weather conditions and are working closely with staff to keep the Trust site as safe as possible.
However, the Trust is keen to make sure members of the public stay safe and avoid unnecessary hazards during any snow and ice.
We would advise members of the public to stay indoors and safe during any hazardous weather. We would encourage you to only visit the hospital if it is absolutely necessary. Despite the best efforts of our staff to keep the site safe, the hospital grounds may become very hazardous and we would like to reduce the likelihood of injury as much as possible. We understand that members of the public may wish to visit relatives who are being treated here but safety is our number one priority at times like this and therefore we would not want anyone to come to unnecessary harm.
There is also plenty that local people can do at home to support their NHS at this time and to avoid an unnecessary trip to their local A&E Department.
We would strongly urge people to take extra care, especially if you are elderly and ideally stay indoors during any periods of snow and ice. Residential areas are usually the last places to be gritted so pavements, pathways and steps can be very icy and dangerous. If you need shopping, please ask someone to do it for you or take extra care if you must venture out and about.
NHS Direct which can be contacted on 0845 4647 and offers round-the-clock health information and advice. You can also visit the website at: www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk
