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News
02 November 2011
Prepare ahead of cold weather to stay healthy
The NHS in the South West is urging people to prepare for winter and be aware of the health risks associated with the colder months.
The risks are particularly important for older people, families with young children and people with disabilities or long-term health conditions but everyone can benefit from following some simple tips.
The advice from the South West Strategic Health Authority follows the launch of the government Get Ready for Winter campaignand the Department of Health’s first Cold Weather Plan which aims to help vulnerable people cope with the cold winter weather.
Those people in at risk groups are also being urged to visit their doctor to receive a free flu vaccination.
The vaccine is available free of charge to people aged 65 or over, all pregnant women, people who have long-term health conditions (such as diabetes, a chest or breathing problem) and anyone who is a main carer.
Cold weather is serious and claims lives every year. In particular, it can make heart and respiratory problems worse and threatens those in or approaching fuel poverty that are unable to afford to heat their homes adequately.
By following some advice (see below) you can help yourself avoid illness.
If you do require medical help it is important to think about what service can best help you quickly and effectively.
For genuine emergencies, such as chest pain, people shouldn’t hesitate to call 999. For other less serious problems, however, not all injuries or illnesses necessarily require a visit to the local A&E department or GP surgery. Many problems can be dealt with quickly and efficiently with a visit to the local pharmacist, a walk-in centre or minor injuries unit, or by contacting NHS Direct on 0845 4647.
People can take the following practical steps to minimise the risks to themselves and others during periods of cold weather:
- Have regular hot drinks and at least one hot meal a day
- Eat regularly to help keep energy levels up during winter
- Keep as active as possible
- Wear several light layers of warm clothes
- Wear appropriate footwear in icy and snowy conditions
- Wrap up warm if you need to go outside - remember your hat, scarf and gloves and always wear strong shoes or boots with grip in slippery conditions
- Check on elderly friends, relatives and neighbours.
- Check medicine cabinet stock levels and that medicines are in date
Dr Gabriel Scally, the Director of Public Health for NHS South of England and Regional Director of Public Health for the South West said:
"It is important to remember the needs of friends, relatives and neighbours who could be at risk in the cold weather. In particular, they should keep their home at the right temperature - between 18 and 21ºC - and if they can’t heat all the rooms they use, they should heat the living room during the day and the bedroom just before they go to sleep. The elderly, and those who are ill, are particularly vulnerable during cold weather, so it’s especially important that we all offer extra support to our friends, relatives and neighbours during the winter months.”
