POLICE are warning people to take care on the roads after the Met Office issued an amber alert for snow across Dunfermline and West Fife.

A yellow warning issued earlier today (Wednesday) was upgraded to amber, as heavy and frequent snow storms look set to hit the area. The amber warning applies from 5pm this evening to 10am tomorrow morning.

Strong, gusty winds could see drifting and temporary blizzards over high ground, and temperatures are set to drop to -1°C.

Chief superintendent Iain Murray, head of Road Policing, said, “With a substantial risk of disruption to travel during the evening and morning rush hours motorists should consider spreading out or staggering their journeys across the peak periods.

“If you do decide to travel, ensure your vehicle is well prepared before setting off; make sure your windscreens are completely free of snow and ice, and your lights are working and clean.

"Driving on snow and ice means adapting your driving style. It is worth remembering the need to keep well back from the vehicle in front as stopping distances can be ten times greater than on dry roads.

“Also watch out for snow-ploughs which may throw out snow on either side. Do not overtake them unless the lane you intend to use has been cleared.

“Please be prepared. Ensure you have sufficient fuel in the vehicle, as well as supplies for yourself and passengers, including food, water, warm clothes and a fully charged mobile phone. Check you route before you set off, and consider an alternative route, if possible.

“Road Policing crews will be patrolling the road network to keep people safe during this period - please follow our advice to travel with extra caution."

Fife Council promised that gritters will be working today and through the night to keep all main roads in Fife clear from the forecast snow.

Standby crews have been rested today in anticipation of a busy night treating Fife’s roads through Wednesday and into Thursday, while parks staff will be out tomorrow morning treating and clearing footpaths.

Bob McLellan, head of Transportation and Environmental Services said, "We’ve more than 140 staff at the ready. Our focus is to keep all the main road and bus routes clear, as well as clearing footpaths outside schools, hospitals and main shopping areas.

“We’re well prepared with good reserves of salt. We’ll continue to monitor and take action to keep all main roads and bus routes as clear as possible.”