Stay Healthy In The New Year

31 December 2013, 12:24 | Updated: 31 December 2013, 12:33

Woman drinking water

Public Health experts are urging vulnerable people across Somerset to keep warm to keep well in the New Year.

Cold weather can lead to very serious health problems, such as heart attacks, strokes or pneumonia, and sometimes it can even kill – especially if you have a long-term health condition or are over 65.

Public Health England has published a free booklet “Keep Warm, Keep Well” with advice to help you maintain good health during winter and to take advantage of the financial help and benefits that are available. .

Top tips for beating any cold snaps include:

·         Have your flu jab to protect yourself and others from influenza, if you’re in an eligible group

·         Have regular hot meals and drinks throughout the day and keep active to help your body stay warm.

·         Wear a few layers of thin clothing rather than one thick layer. When you need to go outside wear shoes with slip resistant, good grip soles.

 
Top tips for keeping warm and well this winter:

·         Keep warm by setting your heating to the right temperature (18 to 21°C).

·         Have your flu jab to protect yourself and others from influenza, if in an eligible group

·         Look out for friends, relatives and neighbours who may be vulnerable to the cold.

·         Stay tuned to the weather forecast and plan ahead with supplies. Download a weather app to keep you up to date.

·         Have regular hot meals and drinks throughout the day and keep active to help your body stay warm.

·         Get financial support to make your home more energy efficient, improve your heating or help with bills.

·         Have your heating and cooking appliances checked regularly.

·         Wear a few layers of thin clothing rather than one thick layer, and when you need to go outside wear shoes with slip resistant, good grip soles.
 

Councillor Christine Lawrence, Chair of the Somerset Health and Wellbeing Board, said:

“We should all take steps to look after our own and our loved ones’ health this winter and where possible to look out for elderly neighbours.”   

Visit www.gov.uk for more information