First published on 3 January. Last updated on 7 January.
Freezing temperatures are forecast by the Met Office to continue in Cambridgeshire until Sunday 12 January, and health experts are urging people to Be Winter Wise and look out for others.
The Amber cold-health alert for Cambridgeshire issued by the United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office has been extended to 12pm on Sunday 12 January.
This means that there is a high risk of severe cold weather, which can be very harmful for health, especially if you're over 65, under five, or have a long-term health condition.
Val Thomas, Acting Director of Public Health for Cambridgeshire County Council said:
“The months after Christmas can be the coldest, and this New Year is no exception. Being cold can be bad for your health, and sitting or sleeping in a cold room increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, chest infections and breathing problems. Try to keep indoor temperatures to at least 18C if you can."
"Make sure you have regular hot food and drinks and try not to sit for more than an hour. Icy walking areas are especially hazardous and can lead to falls. It is best to stay in if you can, but if you must go out, wrap up warmly, wear shoes with a good grip and avoid icy walking areas, which can lead to falls."
"Please look out for others regularly, especially the more vulnerable. Make sure that they are safe and warm, have food and any prescriptions they need, so they do not have go out."
"Don’t forget to check out Cambridgeshire County Council’s Be Winter Wise campaign on social media – it has tips, information and advice on how to stay safe and well during the colder months, and how to get help with heating costs.”
What to do if you have a non-emergency medical problem
- Call 111 for advice on how to look after yourself at home, or be seen by the right service (if you do need medical attention).
- You can also visit your pharmacist for advice and treatment for seven common conditions, for example, sore throat and sinusitis - visit www.nhs.uk/find-a-pharmacy to find your nearest pharmacist.
What you can do now to keep your home warm, efficient and safe:
- Heat rooms to at least 18°C if you can, particularly if you have reduced mobility, are 65 and over, or have a health condition such as heart or lung disease.
- If you are 65 or over or have pre-existing health conditions, you may find bedroom temperatures of at least 18°C beneficial.
- If you can’t heat all the rooms you use, heat the living room during the day and your bedroom just before you go to bed.
- Get your heating system and cooking appliances checked and keep your home well ventilated.
- Draw your curtains at dusk and tuck them behind radiators where possible, to help keep heat in.
- Make sure your radiators are not obstructed by furniture or curtains.
- If you have an electric blanket, use it as instructed and get it tested every three years. Never use a hot water bottle with an electric blanket.
- If you are not on mains gas or electricity, make sure you have a good supply of heating oil, LPG or solid fuel to avoid running out in winter.
Help is available to stay warm:
- There are grants, benefits and advice to help make your home more energy efficient, improve your heating or help with bills. It’s worthwhile claiming all the benefits you are entitled to, before winter sets in. cambridgeshire.gov.uk/support-with-the-cost-of-living
- Visit the Winter Support Hubs for food support, social activities and energy and warmth related essentials:
- East Cambridgeshire, Fenland and South Cambridgeshire: Cambridgeshire Community Hubs Network • Cambridgeshire Acre
- Huntingdonshire: Community Spaces Locations - Huntingdonshire.gov.uk
If you’re struggling with the rising costs of living, you will find a warm, friendly and free welcome at your local library this winter.
Our 33 libraries are open regularly throughout the winter months and we’re keen to welcome anyone who may be struggling to heat their home or needs information about rising living costs. In addition to books, libraries offer a place to work, and access free internet and social activities.
For more information and advice about staying safe and healthy during the winter months, search on your socials for #BeWinterWise. Further advice is available at Keeping warm and well: staying safe in cold weather - GOV.UK
