The last few winters have been much colder than
previous years, which surprised people as we had been used to
fairly mild, damp winters. Changing weather conditions is something
we need to get used to.
Cold weather and snow/ice makes life difficult for many people.
Schools and other public buildings could close as staff may not be
able to travel there. Public transport can be affected which means
it’s difficult to travel to see friends, or get to the shops. Old
people who live alone may find it hard to keep themselves warm. Our
heating bills may be more expensive than we expect.
This winter is expected to be a cold one again, so have a look
now at how you can help yourself, your family and your friends to
stay safe this year.
What you can do to help yourself
How to keep you and your family well in very cold weather:
- Heat your main living room to around 18-21°C (64-70°F) and the
rest of the house to at least 16°C (61°F).
- Contact the Energy
Saving Trust on 0800 512 012 for free impartial advice
on reducing your heating bills and making your home more energy
efficient.
- Ensure you have some basic supplies at home,
see emergency
survival checklist for more information.
- If you need medication ensure you have enough to get you
through the forecast bad weather.
- Stock up on alternative fuels (wood, oil) if you can and always
use these safely.
Visit nhs.uk
for more information.
How to keep your house warm:
- Insulation makes your home warm and healthy and will also help
to keep your heating costs down. You may also be able to get
financial help to insulate your home.
- Helping
with heating.
- Home
insulation.
Look after elderly family or neighbours
Check on vulnerable neighbours, and ensure
they have the things they need.
Keep an eye on weather warnings
Check on the latest
forecast from the Met Office – watch out for severe
weather warnings.
Icy conditions - Out and about on foot
Clear the snow, and then put a mix of sand and
salt down where it is clear. The sand stops you slipping and the
salt stops it refreezing. f you go outside put on sturdy footwear
to avoid slips and trips.
Be particularly careful going up and down
steps and pavements.
Wear several layers of clothing and keep dry
to prevent loss of body heat. Keep moving your arms and legs to
help the blood circulate.
Advice on clearing snow and ice from the roads:
Visit the Direct.gov
website for more information.
Using the car?
For advice on preparing your car, and
travelling safely during snow or ice, and what to do if you are
stranded, see our pages on the
WSCC website.