Department Of Health Releases Winter Weather Advice

Health Minister Jim Wells has urged people to prepare to keep warm during the cold winter months.

The Department of Health has released a guide to help families and individuals keep warm during bouts of extreme weather.



• Check the weather forecast regularly and ensure you have enough food and medicines in stock;

• Wearing the right kind of clothes can help keep you much warmer. Layers are best, t-shirts and under clothes to keep the base of your back warm will heat you from the core;

• If outdoors, take care of potentially icy roads and pavements and wrap up well, wearing boots with good grip, a scarf, gloves and a hat;

• A balanced diet will help keep you warm and healthy in the winter. Make sure you eat at least one hot meal a day;

• Boilers and appliances serviced annually by a registered engineer can protect from the dangers of carbon monoxide.

• Heat all the rooms you use in the day. Heat your main living room to around 18-21°C (65-70°F) and the rest of your house to at least 16°C (61°F).

• Maintain contact with trusted callers, friends and relatives should you need assistance. Remember to keep your mobile charged and at the ready for use.



The Minister said: "Severe weather can cause a range of health problems but you can be ready for them. So before the really cold weather arrives this winter think now how the cold may have an effect on you, your friends and family. Being prepared makes a huge difference when extreme weather hits and can help us, our families and our communities to stay safe, warm and healthy throughout the winter months."

Chief Medical Officer, Dr Michael McBride, said: "Keeping warm over the winter months can help prevent colds, flu or more serious health conditions such as heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia and depression. I would also urge all those in the at-risk groups to get the flu vaccination."

(IT/JP)