A chilling call to action

FRIGHTENING images of homes and fields ablaze on a day of record-breaking heat remind us of the fearsome power of the weather.

Britain needs infrastructure which can withstand radical changes in temperature, and all of us should look out for elderly and vulnerable friends, relatives and neighbours.

High temperatures can kill, but the country must also prepare now to avoid suffering and death this winter when energy bills are due to climb yet higher.

Many decision-makers may be about to go on holiday, but this week’s experience of extreme weather should focus minds in Whitehall and beyond on the vital task of preparing for the cold months ahead.