Cold weather health alert for Cambridgeshire

Freezing temperatures are forecast until Wednesday and health experts are urging people to look out for others.  

An Amber cold-health alert for Cambridgeshire has been issued by the United Kingdom Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and the Met Office. This is in effect until 12:00 8 January, and includes a yellow warning for snow from Saturday 4th – Monday 6th January.

This means that there is a high risk of severe cold weather, which can be very harmful for health, especially if you're over 65, under five, or have a long-term health condition. 

Val Thomas, Acting Director of Public Health for Cambridgeshire County Council said, “The months after Christmas can be the coldest, and this New Year is no exception. Being cold can be bad for your health, and sitting or sleeping in a cold room increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, chest infections and breathing problems.

"Try to keep indoor temperatures to at least 18C if you can.

"Make sure you have regular hot food and drinks and try not to sit for more than an hour. Icy walking areas are especially hazardous and can lead to falls. It is best to stay in if you can, but if you must go out, wrap up warmly, wear shoes with a good grip and avoid icy walking areas, which can lead to falls. 

"Please look out for others regularly, especially the more vulnerable. Make sure that they are safe and warm, have food and any prescriptions that need so they do not have go out.

"Don’t forget to check out Cambridgeshire County Council’s Be Winter Wise campaign on social media – it has tips, information and advice on how to stay safe and well during the colder months, and how to get help with heating costs.”