With cold and wintry weather predicted over the next few days, families across Kent and Medway are being urged to follow a few simple measures to keep their loved ones safe and healthy and help ease pressure on local NHS services.
A level two cold weather warning alert has been announced today (Tuesday 29 December) for Kent and Medway by the Met Office, triggering actions in the NHS, public health, social care and other community organisations, to support vulnerable people who have health issues that increase their risk of harm.
There is a 60% probability of severe cold weather in Southeast England until Friday 1st January - low temperatures and wintry showers are forecast with the potential for rain, snow and widespread ice on Wednesday night and into Thursday.
Prolonged cold weather can be a risk for anyone although vulnerable people, including the elderly and those with long-term medical conditions, are particularly at risk which creates further health concerns this winter season as Covid-19 cases are still prevalent in the community. Those in vulnerable groups can be most at risk of severe symptoms.
Keeping old and vulnerable people safe and well during this cold spell will help ease pressure on local NHS services. Prolonged exposure to the cold increases the risk of strokes and heart attacks - even a short time in the cold, outdoors or indoors, can have a lasting effect.
Advice includes:
- Regular hot meals and drinks can help keep your body warm.
- Keep your home heated – set the heating to the right temperature (18-21C).
- If trying to save fuel, it is advisable to heat the living room during the day, the bathroom when needed and the bedroom, just before going to bed.
- Get the flu vaccine to protect yourself and others. This is free for anyone over 65, pregnant women, those with long term conditions, and children aged two to four. Details are available at GP surgeries or pharmacies and the vaccine is free for some people.
More information is available about how to keep yourself and others safe during cold weather through www.kent.gov.uk/winterhealth
You can find information on Covid-19 including details on the NHS Test and Trace app, symptoms and getting a test at www.kent.gov.uk/protectkent