This article has been brought to you by Slough Borough Council's Senior Programme Officer for Public Health Tim Howells, for the attention of all professionals who work with families.
There is a 90% probability of severe cold weather including ice and snow between 09:00 on Saturday 6th February and 09:00 on Monday 15th February.
Please ensure your plans are actioned and that you are referencing the snow and ice warnings in your communications and using the key messages in NHS Cold Weather Plan around looking after vulnerable people.
Please also find attached the following useful documents:
- Public Health cold weather messages – Hints and tips
- Keep Warm Keep Well and COVID
The Met Office is using hashtag #weatheraware:
- Heating homes to at least 18°C (65F) in winter poses minimal risk to the health of a sedentary person, wearing suitable clothing.
- The 18°C (65F) threshold is particularly important for people 65 years and over or with pre-existing medical conditions; having temperatures slightly above this threshold may be beneficial for health
- Maintaining the 18°C (65F) threshold overnight may be beneficial to protect the health of those 65 years and over or with pre-existing medical conditions; they should continue to use sufficient bedding, clothing and thermal blankets, or heating aids as appropriate
- There is an existing recommendation to reduce sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Advice is that rooms in which infants sleep should be heated to between 16 to 20°C (61 to 68F)
Age UK has produced the attached guidance which I would be grateful if you could share with your staff and clients and community members: Winter Wrapped Up – Age UK