Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) has put in place practical plans to ensure its emergency response during this period of inclement weather but it is also urging residents to play their part in keeping safe.

With the current heavy snow, operational staff and equipment, including vehicles with off-road capability, are ready to respond to fires and other emergencies.

KFRS has been working in close collaboration with partners such as Kent Police, Kent County Council and the Highways Agency. It is also in touch with neighbouring fire services and agreed to provide mutual assistance where needed.

Although KFRS has well rehearsed plans in place to cope with this patch of bad weather, we would like to remind people not to ring us unnecessarily and that, because of the weather conditions, it may take fire appliances longer to reach some areas than usual. It is also important to remember the following safety tips to keep you and your family safe during this chilly spell.

They are:

• If you plan to use an open fire, make sure your chimney is swept as built up soot and ash can cause chimney fires.

• Portable heaters should be dust free and kept well away from anything that could catch fire

• Candles should be placed on a non flammable surface and never be left unattended

• Snow and ice on the roads are causing dangerous driving conditions. Do not travel unless your journey is absolutely necessary.

• Make sure you have a working smoke alarm and test it.

Steve Demetriou, Kent Fire and Rescue Service’s Director of Operations, said: “Together with our partners we have put in place well-practised plans to maintain our emergency response for the county during this cold spell. However, during this time of low temperatures and chilly conditions we urge you to follow our simple fire safety tips. Also, now more than ever, please take the time to check on elderly relatives and neighbours to make sure they are safe, well and free from fire risks.”

For more information on fire safety please log onto www.kent.fire-uk.org