Gardai in Mullingar are urging members of the public to check on elderly neighbours to ensure they are safe and warm, as freezing weather conditions continue to grip Mullingar town and the county.
Garda advice to those concerned about elderly relatives whom they are unable to contact is to attempt to contact their neighbours, and as a last resort to contact local Gardai who will endeavour to check on them.
They are also advising motorists not to travel unless absolutely necessary, as roads in the town are “passable but extremely dangerous”, and driving conditions remain treacherous in the sourrounding areas.
Mullingar and the Midlands have been amongst the worst hit regions in the country with this week’s cold spell, with heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures bringing transport to a standstill and ensuring the majority of schools have remained closed since the first heavy snowfall on Tuesday morning.
And it appears the worst is far from over, with temperatures expected to fall to -13 degrees in parts of the country over the coming nights.
Westmeath County Council has been issuing regular severe weather updates, reminding the public yesterday [Thursday] that it is concentrating on the main arterial routes in the county and on the streets in the major towns and villages.
According to the latest update yesterday afternoon, the N4 and M4 from Kinnegad to Longford, and the N6/M6 from Kinnegad to Athlone were being treated and were open on one lane in each direction; however motorists should not attempt to overtake other vehicles.
Elsewhere in the county the N52 Tyrrellspass to Mullingar and Mullingar to Clonmellon, the N51 Delvin to Athboy, the N55 Athlone to Ballymahon, and the N62 Athlone to Ballymahon were all open and had been treated.
Regional roads were “passable with extreme care”, while in towns and villages pedestrians are being advised to take extra care on footpaths where snow or ice remains.
For information on winter gritting and advice on how to protect your water supply visit Westmeath County Council’s ‘Winter Tips’ page at www.westmeathcoco.ie
The council is also asking that they be made aware of any vulnerable people living alone who might be in need of assistance at (044 ) 9332000. The Civil Defence is also working with the public health services to ensure access for medical services to elderly and vulnerable persons in isolated locations.
People in need of urgent assistance, especially the elderly and infirm, should contact the emergency services through 112 or 999.
