Keep healthy during the cold weather

03 January 2017

Local people are asked to help keep themselves healthy during this week’s cold snap. Please follow these winter tips...

Local people are asked to help keep themselves healthy during this week’s cold snap. Please follow these winter tips:

  • Avoid exposing yourself to cold or icy outdoor conditions if you are at a higher risk of cold-related illness or falls. Stay in and only go out if it is urgent—many injuries, such as broken bones, can potentially be avoided if you stay away from icy paths. Ensure you are stocked with food and medications in advance, have deliveries or ask a friend to help.
  • Take weather into account when planning your activity over the following days and if you need to go out—make sure you wrap up in layers of warm clothes, wear flat shoes with a good tread and take a walking stick to help balance.
  • If you’re commuting to and from work, allow extra time for your journey and watch out for icy surfaces.
  • Keep a watchful eye on friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold and ensure they have access to warm food, drinks and managing to heat their homes adequately.
  • Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18°C, particularly if you are not mobile, have long term illness or are 65 or over.
  • Discuss with friends and neighbours about clearing snow and ice from in front of your house and public walkways nearby, if unable to do so yourself.
  • Only call 999 if there is a genuine emergency.
Contributors
George Vasilopoulos