Health warning triggered in Wisbech as the cold weather returns
Public Health Cambridgeshire issues Cold Weather Alert
With temperatures set to plummet over this weekend, Cambridgeshire and Peterborough health experts are urging people to look out for others during the cold weather.
A Cold Weather Alert has been triggered for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough. Severe cold weather is due to make its way across the county from today (6 February) until Wednesday (10 February). The Met Office forecasts temperatures becoming colder over the weekend with snow and risk of ice, and very cold into next week
Severe cold weather can be very harmful, especially for people aged 65 or older, the very young or those with chronic disease.
Val Thomas, Deputy Director of Public Health at Cambridgeshire County Council and Peterborough City Council, said:
"It is really important to keep warm during this cold weather - both inside and outdoors to make sure that you keep fit and well. Cold weather can be very harmful for health as it increases the risk of chest infections, heart, and other problems. It is especially for important for children under the age of 5 years and older people to keep warm as they have greater risk of becoming unwell.
"Wear a few layers of thin clothing rather than one thick layer when out and about, and when you need to go outside wear shoes with slip resistant, good grip soles. Wearing suitable clothing inside and outside of the home along with keeping your heating at least 18°C in winter reduces the risks to your health when you are wearing suitable clothing.
"Older neighbours, relatives, friends and other elderly members of the community are more vulnerable in the winter months and may need a bit of extra help this winter. So, make sure you keep in touch, check if they are feeling under the weather, help them stock up on food supplies, make sure they have plenty of warm food and drinks. Also, it is important that they have their necessary medication during this spell of bad weather. This needs to be done following COVID-19 guidance."
Top tips to keep warm during cold weather:
Keep Warm
Heat your home to at least 18°C
Ensure you have adequate food, medication and warm clothes
Check if you are eligible for help to keep your home warm
Keep Well
Stay as active as you can
Follow COVID-19 guidance
Keep Connected Safely
Get help if you need it. Speak to your GP, pharmacist, carer or key worker for advice
Keep in touch with friends, family and your community
Look out for others. Ask how they are keeping warm during cold weather
Covid-19 and cold weather:
Those most at risk from the coronavirus such as the elderly or people with other medical conditions are also those at risk from cold weather. If you are vulnerable, it is especially important to take sensible steps to keep warm.