MOTORISTS have dug out their de-icers and the county's gritters are out in force as Hampshire stays on cold weather alert.

Now health bosses are urging people to stay warm as low temperatures are expected to stay until at least tomorrow.

It comes after Hampshire County Council put its 55 salting vehicles and snow ploughs on standby, filled its 4,000 community salt bins and got to work monitoring road conditions following the cold and icy weather alert issued by the Met Office.

Council health chiefs are reminding people to keep an eye on loved ones, friends and neighbours who may be at risk due to low temperatures, including children under five, adults over 75 and people with pre-existing medical conditions as the cold weather continues.

They advise people to keep their home warm and ventilated, heating it to at least 18°C (65°F) but not using a gas cooker or oven.

They recommend keeping the warmth in by draught proofing doors and windows, ensuring there is enough insulation in the loft and around hot water pipes, drawing curtains at dusk and ensuring radiators are not covered.

They also advise people to consume plenty of hot food and drinks, exercise to keep warm, stock up on medicine and keep wrapped up in lots of thin layers and well-fitting slippers.

The council's adult social care and public health boss Cllr Liz Fairhurst, said: “With some of the coldest weather we've seen so far this winter, it's really important that everyone is aware of the effects the cold can have on their health.

“While some groups are particularly vulnerable, and we would ask for everyone's support in looking after them, being aware of the simple steps you can take to keep warm is really important.”

For more information on keeping homes warm contact the council's Cold Sport Project helpline on 0800 804 8601.