Cold weather puts young children, people over 65 and those with heart and lung conditions at risk from low temperatures.

With many parts of England forecast to receive their first bout of cold this winter, Public Health England (PHE) is today (12 December 2018) issuing weather warnings.

The Met Office has forecast a short spell of cold for the north east, north west, Yorkshire and Humber, East Midlands, and West Midlands. The cold, which could drop below zero degrees in many places, could also trigger some snowfall, but it is not certain where.

As a result, PHE is urging people all over the country to think about what they can do to keep warm and well during the cold.

Dr Owen Landeg of Public Health England, said:

This cold is likely to arrive late on Thursday and into Friday. Before then it’s really important to think about what you can do to prepare and protect more vulnerable friends and family from the ill-effects of the cold.

It is best to wear lots of thin layers, have plenty of warm food and drinks to stay warm, and check weather forecasts before heading out. Also, wear shoes with a good, slip-resistant grip to prevent any accidental falls.

When indoors, stay warm, heat homes to at least 18°C, and keep up-to-date with the weather forecast - all of this is particularly important if anyone in the home is very young, 65 or over or has a long-term heart or lung condition, as they can feel the ill-effects of cold more than the rest of us.

Frank Saunders, Chief Meteorologist at the Met Office said:

It’s going to be cold over the next few days, with temperatures for many parts limited to between 3 and 6°C through the day.

Many of us will wake up to a frost on Friday and Saturday morning, before wet and windy weather moves in later on Saturday.

To prepare for cold weather:

look out for friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold, and ensure they have access to warm food and drinks and are managing to heat their homes adequately

try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18°C, particularly if you are not mobile, have a 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

if eligible, seek entitlements and benefits - power and utility companies have schemes which make at-risk groups a priority for reconnection following power cuts

avoid exposing yourself to cold or icy outdoor conditions if you are at a higher risk of cold-related illness or falls

discuss with your friends and neighbours the need to clear snow and ice from in front of your house and public walkways nearby

Stay Well This Winter contains useful advice on staying warm this winter.

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