NHS Issues Cold Weather Advice

With the Met Office warning of rain, snow and sub-zero temperatures hitting the region on Thursday night (December 16th 2010), the NHS in Dorset and in Hampshire is urging local residents to stay in, keep warm and only go out if it is absolutely necessary.

During bad weather, it is important to remember to:

- Stay in and only go out if it is urgent. Many injuries, such as broken bones, can potentially be avoided if you stay away from icy paths

- If you really need to go out, make sure you wrap up in layers of warm clothes, wear flat shoes with a good tread and take a walking stick to help balance

- Only call 999 if it is a genuine emergency

- Only travel to appointments, such as GP and hospital appointments, if it is safe to do so. If you can’t get there safely then phone the number on your appointment letter/card and staff will rearrange your appointment for you

- If you’re commuting home from work, allow extra time for your journey

- Keep a watchful eye on any vulnerable neighbours, friends and family.

- There is a range of NHS service you can contact for advice or treatment

- For more information on choosing appropriate services this winter please visit

HERE if you live in HAMPSHIRE,  or if you live in DORSET click HERE

If you do need help or advice NHS Dorset and NHS Hampshire offer a range of emergency and non-emergency services.

For life threatening emergencies, always call 999. For less urgent matters, it is important to be aware of the choice of local NHS non-emergency services available including GP Health Centres, walk in centres, minor injuries units, GP out of hours services and pharmacies.