A virtual National Emergency Co-ordination Group (NECG) meeting was held on Saturday morning to prepare for the potentially disruptive weather forecasted across the country.

• Very difficult travelling conditions
• Poor visibility
• Disruption and delays to public transport likely (air, rail, bus)
• Difficult conditions underfoot
• Animal welfare issues
• The NDFEM continues to liaise with Met Éireann and is monitoring the situation.

“We are going to see difficult travel conditions for much of the country in the coming days. Driving conditions will be hazardous, even where roads are gritted – so I urge people to slow down, drive with caution, be aware of other road users and allow extra time for your journey. It’s important that drivers travelling longer journeys are aware of conditions right along their route, as the weather may vary significantly across different parts of the country. Footpaths can also be extremely hazardous and slippery due to ice so please take extra care while walking. Public transport may also be affected by this spell of wintry weather, so I’d advise people to check with service operators for the latest updates in their area.

With regard to rough sleepers during this wintry spell, the Department is communicating with Regional Leads in relation to their Cold Weather Initiatives and has advised them of the expected conditions. Cold Weather Initiatives operate across all local authorities to provide additional emergency beds for rough sleepers where needed – ensuring that additional temporary beds can be brought into use across a range of existing services and facilities, for singles and couples who need them during periods of cold weather.

Finally, I would urge all members of the public to take extra care with all activities and to check out the Met Éireann and Be Winter Ready websites for further updates and advice.”

• Check on elderly, vulnerable and isolated neighbours.
• Keep your phone charged and take it with you on all journeys. In an emergency dial 999 or 112
• Monitor Met Éireann forecasts and / or visit met.ie for the most up to date information. Information is available across social media platforms and other news media sources.
• ESB Emergency Services can be contacted at 1800 372 999. The public can monitor www.powercheck.ie/
• Monitor HSE updates regarding possible impacts on the delivery of their services.  Note that local injury clinics are the best option if you need medical attention following a slip/fall.
• The Be Winter Ready website provides further advice on preparing for severe weather.
• Farmers are advised to take all precautions when dealing with livestock and possibly working alone.

• As temperatures fall below zero, Uisce Éireann is reminding people to protect their water pipes from the freezing weather at home or in their business/farm.
• Check outside pipes that can become frozen and burst during periods of cold weather and, if possible, turn off water supply to these areas or to any unoccupied premises.
• Uisce Éireann is asking people to conserve water and not to leave taps running as this will not necessarily prevent pipes from freezing and can impact on your local water supply.
• Uisce Éireann Customers can check their website and social media channels for updates and to get in touch with any issues or concerns via their 24/7 customer care centre at 1800 278 278. People can also sign up online to free text alert system to get regular updates about their local supplies – see www.water.ie.