THE LONDON Ambulance Service has been extra busy in Hounslow as 40 people were treated for slips and falls in the icy weather in just four days.
The service saw a 54 per cent rise in falls in the borough from Monday to Thursday compared to the same period the week before.
This compares to an 18 per cent rise across London for the same period.
A warning has been issued as snow covered pavements ice over in the cold snap, with residents urged to take extra care.
Icy roads have also presented problems for ambulances trying to get to residents in distress.
Ambulance operations manager for the Hounslow area, Edward Potter, said that there were further concerns last night as pavements were expected to freeze again.
He said: "The snow is presenting us with some challenges at the moment.
"I’d urge people to take extra care when they’re out and about and to wrap up warm. We’re already seeing an increase in calls to patients who have slipped or fallen over so people should be careful. The roads might be relatively clear but the pavements are very slippery".
Anyone who needs an emergency ambulance should call 999, but people with more minor illnesses and injuries are being asked to consider other options first, such as calling NHS Direct on 0845 46 47, or making their own way to a local pharmacist or NHS walk-in centre.
