Cold weather health warnings issued by PHE

With many parts of England forecast to receive their first bout of cold this winter, Public Health England (PHE) is today issuing weather warnings.

The Met Office has forecast a short spell of cold for the north east, north west, Yorkshire and Humber, East Midlands, and West Midlands. The cold, which could drop below zero degrees in many places, could also trigger some snowfall, but it is not certain where.

As a result, PHE is urging people all over the country to think about what they can do to keep warm and well during the cold.

Dr Owen Landeg of Public Health England, said:

This cold is likely to arrive late on Thursday and into Friday. Before then it’s really important to think about what you can do to prepare and protect more vulnerable friends and family from the ill-effects of the cold.

It is best to wear lots of thin layers, have plenty of warm food and drinks to stay warm, and check weather forecasts before heading out. Also, wear shoes with a good, slip-resistant grip to prevent any accidental falls.

When indoors, stay warm, heat homes to at least 18°C, and keep up-to-date with the weather forecast – all of this is particularly important if anyone in the home is very young, 65 or over or has a long-term heart or lung condition, as they can feel the ill-effects of cold more than the rest of us.