Advice ahead of cold weather warning

Paramedics at South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust are reminding people to take care over the next week as another yellow weather warning has been issued for the South West.

The Trust sees an increase in cases of slips, trips and falls during icy conditions as well as an increase of road traffic collisions due to black ice and people driving too fast in the cold weather. If you do need to go out, try and wear the appropriate footwear and warm clothing  and make sure you take care and respect the roads.

It is also time to stock up on any prescription medicines and visit your pharmacy so you can self-medicate.  Look in on your vulnerable neighbours and relatives to check they are safe, warm and have enough food. 

NHS guidelines suggest that if you are 65 or over, or have a health condition, such as heart or lung disease it is best to heat your home to at least 18C (65F). Cold weather can be a problem when the temperature drops to below 8C, some people are more at risk of heart attack, stroke, flu, pneumonia, falls and hypothermia.

Using the ambulance service in the correct way will help us ensure that patients with a time-critical, life threatening condition are reached as soon as possible. Alternative healthcare options for less serious conditions include, visiting your GP or local pharmacy, visiting a minor injury unit, a NHS walk-in centre or calling NHS 111. 

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/healthy-body/keep-warm-keep-well/