Emergency services have been gearing up for plummeting temperatures and heavy snow predicted to hit the region.
Ambulance chiefs said extra resources are being put on standby in case a big freeze grips the county. Essex Ambulance Service says its four-wheel drive rapid response vehicles should be able to tackle even the worst of the winter weather.
But they are taking the extra precaution of kitting vehicles out with shovels, in case they do run into trouble.
Spokesman Paul Leaman said: "We took a long hard look at the way we deal with winter weather after last year's snow and ice brought much of Essex to a standstill. We cannot predict what level of service we will be required to provide but we are as prepared as we can be."
Published Tuesday January 27, 2004
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