ALERT: HSE urges caution as latest Met Eireann warnings take effect in Clare

With freezing temperatures expected to continue over the coming days, HSE Mid-West is urging members of the public to take extra precautions to keep safe and well.

A status orange low temperature/ice warning, issued by Met Éireann for most of the country including Clare, will be in effect from 8pm this Tuesday until 10am on Wednesday.

A second warning, which also includes Clare, will be valid from 6pm on Wednesday until 11am on Thursday. 

"Cold weather can be harder on older people and on other vulnerable members of the community. We strongly advise older people to avoid going outdoors during these severe weather conditions and we are urging members of the public to make a special effort to keep in contact with their neighbours and relatives, particularly those living alone," said a spokesperson for HSE Mid-West.

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Maria Bridgeman, Integrated Healthcare Area Manager, Limerick City and North Tipperary, HSE Mid-West, added: "We are urging members of the public to keep warm, eat well and avoid unnecessary travel over the coming days.  This is especially important in more remote areas where the snow and ice has resulted in extremely hazardous travelling conditions."

HSE Mid-West says it is making every effort to provide essential services such as home supports and community nursing. However, disruptions to hospital and community services are expected to continue for the remainder of this week due to the hazardous travelling conditions. 

Members of the public can click here for up to date information on service disruptions.

"I would also like to recognise the support from our voluntary partners such as the Civil Defence, Order of Malta and Irish Red Cross who are assisting in the transport of personnel to ensure that essential services can continue for those with the highest care needs," Ms Bridgeman

HSE Mid-West is urging people to take extreme care as they go out and about to prevent slips, trips and falls. Injury Units are open in Ennis, Nenagh and St John’s Hospitals from 8am to 8pm, every day. Injury Units can treat broken bones, dislocations, sprains, strains, wounds, scalds and minor burns. 

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The Emergency Department at University Hospital Limerick remains open 24-7 for patients with the most serious illnesses and injuries, including life-threatening emergencies. Anyone attending ED with a less urgent condition may face long waiting times.

Clare County Council and the Road Safety Authority are appealing to motorists not to make any unnecessary journeys and to exercise extreme caution if they do have to travel while the warnings are in place.