People in Kent are being warned to ensure they stay safe and healthy as temperatures are set to plummet below freezing this week.

Gritters are ready and waiting to hit the streets as forecasters predict cold and wintry conditions - which could include snow - as the week progresses.

There will be lows of 2c tomorrow and 3c on Wednesday, but the mercury is expected to drop to freezing or below on Thursday, Friday and into the weekend.

Frost is expected, as well as scattered showers - which could become wintry on Thursday.

Kent County Council health chiefs have issued advice to residents on how to keep themselves and their loved ones safe as winter finally arrives.

Cabinet member for adult social care and public health, Graham Gibbens, said: "We appreciate that most people will be able to look after themselves but some members of the community need help.

"Basic advice can help everyone prepare, such as being ready to stay indoors, making sure there is enough food and medicine at home and ordering repeat prescriptions in plenty of time.

"Having a family member, friend or neighbour who can help out can be vital in cold weather – helping with anything from putting the bin out to collecting a prescription or doing some grocery shopping.

"Please be a good neighbour and rally round, take time to care for yourself, your family and others."

Tips include making regular hot drinks and wearing several thin layers of clothes to keep the body warm.

KCC's director of public health Andrew Scott-Clark added: "Exposure to the cold increases the risk of strokes and heart attacks – even a short time in the cold, outdoors or indoors, can have a lasting effect.

"People should wrap up warm to protect themselves and help those who may have difficulty following the basic advice."

Click here and here for more advice.