This week’s cold snap poses a serious risk to the health of elderly and vulnerable people who have been advised to heat their homes to a minimum of 18C.
According to The Times:
The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for ice across the centre of the UK, covering all four nations, and temperatures are set to drop below 0C in most places overnight until Friday.
Snow and ice is expected across parts of Northern Ireland, northwestern England and North Wales. An ice warning has also been issued for Cornwall and parts of Devon.
The Met Office said snow showers and icy stretches may bring some disruption, leading to longer journeys for motorists and train passengers.
It said treacherous conditions could lead to slips and falls, urging drivers and cyclists to beware of icy patches.
With overnight temperatures expected to drop to -1C in London, the UK Health Security Agency warned that cold weather could increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections.
Dr Agostinho de Sousa, from the agency, said: “If you have a pre-existing medical condition or are over the age of 65, it is important to try and heat your home to at least 18C.’’
According to NHS England, in a typical pre-pandemic year heart problems account for 40 per cent of excess deaths in winter.
A British Heart Foundation study looking at over-60s found the risk of heart attack and strokes doubled in cold periods of at least four days…
Jason Kelly, chief meteorologist at the Met Office, said: “If people can’t heat all the rooms they use, it’s important to heat the living room during the day and the bedroom just before going to sleep.
Wearing several layers of thinner clothing will keep you warmer than one thicker layer. Having plenty of hot food and drinks is also effective.”
