GWENT Police received a 50 percent increase in calls during the last 24 hours due to the weather and around 350 of these were from people complaining about youngsters throwing snowballs.

The force want to urge youngsters and parents to be aware of the possible dangers, and at least inconvenience, that throwing snowballs poses to people trying to get about safely.

Chief Inspector Jim Baker said, "We understand that there is a temptation for youngsters to play in the snow which is fine but we would urge them to have sense. If they want to throw snowballs don't aim them at members of the public, or drivers, who may be put in danger because of it or who may not appreciate the snow as much as them. We would also like people to be thoughtful of the demand put on us at this time and to only call us if there is a real need to do so: many of the calls we have received are reporting youngsters throwing snowballs and while our call operators are taking those calls, they are prevented from taking calls from people who may well need help."

Police are advising members of the public to stay safe and warm indoors if they can and not to take unnecessary journeys. Essential services are being maintained with the use of planned patrols and 4x4s.

Police offer the following advice:

- Make sure you have sufficient fuel for your journey. Keep the fuel tank topped up.

- Give yourself extra time for your journey and drive at a constant speed. Accept your journey will take longer and don't take risks.

- Take a mobile telephone with you and make sure it is fully charged. Carry a mobile charger in the car.

- Wear comfortable shoes, not thick boots, which can be difficult to drive in. Keep warm clothing and footwear in the car in case you get stuck or need to get out of the car, and carry a thermos flask and high energy snacks such as chocolate so you can have a hot drink and something to eat.

- Make sure all your car lights are working and you have no failed bulbs. Ensure that dirt, salt and snow is cleared away from light fixtures.

- Always ensure all windows are fully cleared of snow, frost and condensation before setting off on a journey - it is illegal to drive with obscured vision.

- Also clear snow from the top of the car as this can fall down and obscure your windscreen while you are driving.

- Keep windscreen washer fluid topped up as windscreens quickly become dirty from traffic spray and salt from the roads.

- If you get stuck stay with your car, but in an emergency if do need to leave it, park it out of the main traffic route, where it won't cause an obstruction when conditions ease. Leave a contact number on the inside of the windscreen and return to your car at the first opportunity you have.