Advice has been offered to people using roads and pavements as temperatures drop well below freezing.

Freezing conditions are expected to see the temperature drop to at least minus 4C across Dorset, according to the Met Office, and some parts of the county could experience even colder temperatures overnight.

The forecast says that it will drop below freezing in the early hours of Thursday, January 18, which could see roads and pavements become treacherous with ice.

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service has warned road users to check the conditions of their tyres before heading out in the icy conditions.

A DWFRS spokesperson said: "With temperatures due to drop as low as -6 over the next few days, please be extra careful on roads and pavements.

"Stick to main roads wherever possible and check the condition of your tyres are in good working order."

There are also certain winter preparations drivers can make before travelling, such as taking an emergency kit on journeys., which the fire service say should include the following: 

  • Ice scraper and de-icer
  • Warm clothes and blankets – for you and all passengers
  • Torch and spare batteries – or a wind-up torch
  • Food and a flask with a hot drink
  • Any medication you need to take regularly
  • Boots
  • First aid kit
  • Jump leads
  • A shovel
  • Road atlas
  • Sunglasses (the glare from winter sun can be dazzling)
  • Car charger for your mobile phone

For more information on driving in wintery conditions visit www.dwfire.org.uk/education/road-safety/winter-driving-checklist/