Cold weather health advice
Given current pressures on hospitals we all need to do our bit to keep ourselves and our families well this winter, especially during periods when there is a weather alert.
Cold weather can be dangerous for many groups, especially those aged 65, pregnant women, as well as people with pre-existing health conditions as a fall in temperature increases the risk of heart attacks, stroke and chest infections.
However, there are plenty of things we can all do to keep everyone as safe as possible:
- Check on vulnerable people particularly if they live alone
- If it’s icy and you don’t have to go out – stay at home. Plan ahead if you can to make sure you have enough food and medications
- Make sure that your home is heated to at least 18 degrees
- Reduce the likelihood of infection by washing your hands often and for about two minutes
- If you’re already ill – be mindful of others and catch it, kill it, bin it – and wash your hands frequently
- It’s not too late to have your seasonable flu vaccination or Covid-19 boosters
If you are struggling to heat you home have a look at our information on fuel bills and energy efficiency.