Motorists becoming trapped on roads in Laois are blocking roads and tying up the valuable resources of Laois Fire and Rescue.
“Our crews have spent a lot of time so far today rescuing stranded vehicles,” a social media post by the fire service said. “Roads are impassable in many places with 4x4s- getting stuck means tying up emergency resources and creating worse obstructions,” they added.
An appeal has been made for motorists to only consider making journeys if it is an emergency.
Laois County Council has advised that a RED status weather warning remains in place for County Laois.
“Having regard to local conditions all persons should remain indoors, do not travel and stay safe,” the council outlined.
Stuck
“Do not travel. Cars getting stuck on roads impedes the efforts of the emergency services,” the council added.
“Please be advised if you require the assistance of the emergency services please dial 999. The local number for the Severe Weather Communication Centre is 1890837273. Emergency shelter is available on request,” the council said.
Motorway and National routes are being treated and drivers should take extreme care.
Further snowfall, freezing temperatures and drifting snow has made certain other routes in the County impassable and conditions on all other routes are extremely hazardous, according to the council.
The Gardai are again urging people to avoid all unnecessary travel and if you have to go out, ensure you use appropriate transport, bring all necessary equipment with you, let someone know where you are going and a time that you are expected back; that includes farmers going out to check on animals.
Our crews have spent a lot of time so far today rescuing stranded vehicles. These pictures were taken with LS17 just outside Abbeyleix on the R430. Roads are impassable in many places with 4x4s- getting stuck means tying up emergency resources and creating worse obstructions. pic.twitter.com/LTWOn6Yznd
— Laois Fire & Rescue (@LaoisFireRescue) 2 March 2018
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