During winter months temperatures in Sefton can drop dramatically. In times of extreme cold the Government may declare a Cold Weather Alert.
What does a cold weather alert mean?
Cold Weather Alerts are issued when the cold weather has the most serious impact on health.
This particularly affects older people and those with pre-existing health conditions, as it increases the risks of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections.
During icy conditions and snow, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) encourages people to stay warm and to look out for those most at risk from the effects of cold weather.
During these periods, it is important to check in on family, friends and relatives who may be more vulnerable to the cold weather.
People with a pre-existing medical condition and those over the age of 65, should try and heat your home to at least 18°C if possible.
How to stay warm and well
You should heat your home to a temperature that is comfortable for you. In rooms you mostly use such as the living room or bedroom, try to heat them to at least 18°C if you can, particularly if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
You should also keep your bedroom windows closed at night. Exposure to low indoor temperatures can have a serious impact on your health as you get older. Wearing several layers of clothing will keep you warmer than one thicker layer.
Have your heating and cooking appliances checked to make sure they are working safely.
Use this link to find a as Safe registered engineer.
Contact your water and power suppliers to see if you can be on the Priority Services Register, a free support service that helps people in vulnerable situations.
For more information about how to stay warm and well in winter, visit Age UK’s website.
Or call 0800 169 6565 and remember to quote ‘WINTER’.
Visit our Cost of Living pages.
Sefton Warm Spaces
Working alongside voluntary, community and social enterprise organisations, we have established a network of Warm Spaces across Sefton this winter.
These include libraries, community centres, community hubs and other places offering a warm welcome and free to use for anyone struggling to heat their home.
You can use this link to find out more about Sefton's Warm Spaces network.