AMBULANCE crews are battling the treacherous conditions to get to patients as quickly as possible.

But a spokesman urged people not to call 999 unless there was a genuine medical emergency when it was obvious someone had a life-threatening illness or injury.

“We would like to reassure the public that we are making every effort to get to patients as quickly, and as safely, as possible despite the severe weather conditions and extremely hazardous driving conditions for our ambulance crews.

“We are urging people to take extra care when out walking or driving due to the treacherous conditions and ask that the public only call 999 for an ambulance in a medical emergency when it is obvious that someone has a life-threatening illness or injury.”

Non-emergency patient journeys have been cancelled but the Patient Transport Service is operating for patients with urgent medical needs such as essential renal and oncology treatments.

The situation is likely to be the same tomorrow.

Yorkshire Ambulance Service is asking patients not to call its Patient Transport Service registration line if their query relates to travel arrangements affected by the weather.