Look after your neighbours during the cold snap, warn health chiefs (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Snow poses health risks, residents warned

9:37am Friday 18th January 2013 in News By Barbara Jordan

HEALTH chiefs are urging people to keep an eye on their vulnerable neighbours as heavy snowfall is expected.

Simon Banks, chief officer of Halton Clinical Commissioning Group, which looks the NHS in the borough, said: “The current freezing weather and forecast snow continues to present a health risk, particularly to older people and those with underlying medical conditions.

“ It’s very important for people to look after themselves and others around them, and to take sensible steps to reduce the risk of injury or illness.”

Illnesses related to cold weather cost the NHS £1.36 billion every year, and are responsible for more than 27,000 deaths in the UK each winter, according to new research from Age UK, so it’s more important than ever to look after yourself and vulnerable neighbours during a cold snap.

To stay warm, health chiefs have issued the following tips: * Keep curtains drawn and doors closed to block out draughts * Have regular hot drinks and at least one hot meal a day * Wear several light layers of warm clothes rather than one chunky jumper * Keep your main living room at around 18-21 degrees centigrade There are many agencies in Halton able to help if you’re strugglng to cope in the cold weather.

For more details, contact Halton Citizens Advice Bureau on 08451 304055 or visit haltoncab.org.uk