The impact of severe cold
Severe cold weather can be dangerous for vulnerable groups such as older people and those with serious illnesses. It’s important for people to look after their health as the winter months can mean:
Keeping our homes warm is important – but it’s not necessary to heat the whole house. We just need to keep the main rooms we occupy – such as the living room and bedroom – warm. Warm clothing and hot drinks should help prevent our most vulnerable people falling ill this winter.”
Temperature and The Risks
| Temperature | Risk |
| 21°C | Recommended room temperature for vulnerable groups |
| Below 16°C | Reduced resistance to respiratory infection |
| Below 12°C | Cardiovascular changes increase risk of heart attacks and stroke |
| Below 9°C | Core body temperature drops and increased cardiovascular problems if exposure lasts for more than two hours |
| 5°C | Significant risk of hypothermia |
Ensuring your home is adequately heated and well insulated can reduce these risks.
To find out more about what you can do to improve your home contact the Energy Efficiency Officer at your local council. They will be able to give you free, impartial information and advice on making your home a healthy home and any grants available to assist with the cost of installing insulation and upgrading heating system
Here are some top tips:
- Check you have had your flu jab if you are aged 65 or over, pregnant, have certain medical conditions, live in a residential or nursing home, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person
- Check you have shoes that grip well to prevent falls in cold weather; wear several layers of clothes to stay warm; and stay active in your home
- Good hand hygiene can help prevent the spread of norovirus
- Check you have had your heating and cooking appliances serviced – carbon monoxide is a killer
- Check NHS choices for health guidance on winter ailments (flu, winter vomiting, cold temperatures)