Keep an eye on vulnerable neighbours

PEOPLE are being urged to keep an eye on vulnerable members of their communities as a wintry spell is predicted in parts of Wales.

Every winter thousands of people fall ill and many die because of exposure to cold both in the home and while outdoors.

Those most at risk include older people, very young children and those with conditions like heart and lung disease.

Huw Brunt, lead consultant in environmental health protection for Public Health Wales, said: “We are advising members of the public to be vigilant, and take special care with friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold.

“Ensure they have access to warm food and drinks and are managing to heat their homes adequately.

“Avoid exposing yourself to cold or icy outdoor conditions if you are at a higher risk of cold related illness or falls.

“And if you are fit and able, discuss with friends and neighbours about clearing snow and ice from in front of your house and public walkways nearby.”

Cold weather can pose serious population health risks, causing “excess” deaths in winter compared with the rest of the year. It may generate associated morbidity such as hypothermia, falls and injuries, heart attacks, strokes, respiratory diseases and flu.

Indirect effects of cold include mental health illnesses such as depression, and carbon monoxide poisoning from poorly-maintained or poorlyventilated boilers, cooking and heating appliances.

More deaths occur every winter in the UK than in the summer due to a wide range of causes including cold weather, influenza and other respiratory infections.

Cold weather brings the risk of hypothermia, falls and injuries, heart attacks, strokes, respiratory diseases and flu. Indirect effects of cold include mental health illnesses such as depression, and carbon monoxide poisoning from poorly maintained or poorly ventilated boilers, cooking and heating appliances.

Other key advice during the cold weather:

Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18°C, particularly if you are not mobile, have long term illness or are 65 or over.

Stay tuned for weather forecasts, ensure you are stocked with food and medications in advance, have deliveries or ask a friend to help.

Take weather into account when planning your activity over the following days

Seek entitlements and benefits such as Winter Fuel Payments and Cold Weather Payments, which are available to some.