Severe cold weather alert
The Department of Health have announced a severe
cold weather alert affecting all of England (Wednesday, February
1).
The Department of Health have announced a 'Level 3' cold weather
alert, which indicates that severe cold weather is occurring
and expected to last for at least 48 hours. The
alert level also means that the severe weather is
expected to impact on health and health services.
The cold weather health watch uses four levels of alert, which
take account of temperature along with other winter weather threats
such as ice and snow.
Residents are urged to maintain daily contact with their
neighbours, family members and people who are especially vulnerable
to the effects of cold weather.
Advice for individuals, families and carers
Residents are encouraged to prepare for severe cold
weather by taking the following actions:
- Stay informed by tuning in to weather forecasts.
- Take the weather into account when planning your activity over
the following days. For example, avoid exposing yourself to cold or
icy outdoor conditions if you are at higher risk of cold-related
illness or falls.
- Consider how you can access essential medication and groceries
without putting yourself at risk, for example by getting supplies
in early, having them delivered, or asking a friend or neighbour
for help.
- Check that the heating in your home is working properly, that
your home is warm enough and that at least one room meets
recommended room temperatures.
- Consider whether any friends and family could benefit from some
additional support during the cold snap.
- Discuss with neighbours, community, friends and relatives about
clearing snow and ice from in front of your house and public
walkways nearby if you are unable to do this yourself.
If you are concerned about a vulnerable resident and would like
some advice, please contact the council’s Adult Social Care Hotline
on 020 7364 5005 or email: adultcare@towerhamlets.gov.uk
Further information
Visit the Direct Gov website for
useful advice about staying warm in winter.
Read the Department
of Health: Keep Warm Keep Well leaflet which gives advice on
staying healthy in cold weather.
For more information about cold weather alert
levels visit the Met
Office Cold Weather Watch webpage.
For useful numbers about other council services please visit the
Council Hotlines page.