Warning as freezing temperatures set to hit Gloucestershire (From Gazette Series)

Warning as freezing temperatures set to hit Gloucestershire

6:50pm Thursday 10th January 2013 in News By Daniel Chipperfield

RESIDENTS in Gloucestershire are urged to stay warm and look out for each other with freezing temperatures set to hit over the weekend.

With colder weather expected and the possibility of snow, NHS Gloucestershire and Gloucestershire County Council are urging people to stay warm and well, and look out for older family members and neighbours.

Consultant in Public Health at NHS Gloucestershire Sarah Scott said:

“We’ve had a relatively mild winter so far, but with the possibility of cold weather and icy conditions over the next few days, we would advise people to take sensible precautions to ensure they stay warm and well.

“Bad weather conditions can cause real difficulties, especially for those people who might already be vulnerable because of their age, illness or disability.

“Keep an eye on local weather forecasts for the latest information on weather conditions; and take extra care if you are unsteady on your feet or have an existing health condition which might be made worse by cold weather, such as heart disease or respiratory problems.”

Cllr Andrew Gravells, Gloucestershire County Council Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, added:

“When the weather gets colder as expected, there will be many older and vulnerable people around the county who need extra support to stay warm and well.

“I would encourage those with elderly relatives or older or vulnerable people living within their communities to make sure they’re ok.

“It’ll only take a few minutes to pop around to your neighbour’s home or visit a relative but that few minutes could make a huge difference to their wellbeing.

“Everyone has a duty to look out for each other - it costs nothing to be a good neighbour and we should all do what we can to help those who need it the most.”

Top tips for keeping warm and well in cold and snowy conditions:

• Stay tuned to your local radio station or online news sites for the latest updates on weather and travel conditions. If you have to go out, take extra care as pavements and roads may be icy. Wear boots or shoes with good grip on the soles.
• Keep your home warm. Your main living room should be between around 18-21C (64-70F). You can also use a hot-water bottle or electric blanket (but not both at the same time) to keep warm while you're in bed.
• Dress for the weather. Several thin layers of clothes are better than one thick layer. If possible, stay inside during a cold period if you have heart or respiratory problems, as the cold temperatures may cause symptoms to worsen.
• Stock up on some essential long life food products in case you can’t get to the shops, and keep some over the counter treatments for everyday illnesses, like indigestion or colds, in your medicine cabinet.
• Look out for elderly friends and neighbours, especially if they live on their own.

If you are worried about a relative or an elderly neighbour, contact your local council or ring the Age UK helpline on 0800 1696565.