How To Prepare For Snow And Ice

Helping you to prepare and reduce the effects of extreme weather conditions on your health

Take extra care

In 2010/11 there were 23,700 more deaths in England between December 2010 and March 2011 were observed compared to the rest of the year - a large proportion of them are likely due to the cold. Cold temperatures can cause physiological effects such as blood thicker , increased blood pressure and tightening of the airways - making people who already have chronic diseases even more vulnerable .

There is a link between the onset of cold weather and the death of two heart attacks and respiratory diseases. The elderly are particularly at risk because they do not feel the cold until their body temperature drops . People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD ) also have a significantly increased risk of health problems and hospitalization during periods of cold weather risk and high levels of circulating respiratory infections.

We work closely with Public Health England to determine when the winter is likely to significantly affect people's health , we also work in partnership to develop the cold weather plan for England. The plan, which aims to reduce the impact of very cold weather on health, provides guidance for individuals, communities and organizations on how to prepare for and respond to very cold weather.

Cold Weather Plan for England is linked to an alert winter system developed by the Met Office has called the cold weather alert service. The service operates in England from November 1 to March 31 of each year. Cold weather alerts are sent to NHS Trusts in England, and age in the UK , to ensure that staff and resources are fully prepared for all periods of extreme cold , snow and / or widespread ice, and those who are more vulnerable to cold conditions are aware and prepared. Cold weather alerts are issued on our website, via weather forecasts on TV and radio as well as on our Twitter feed . Cold weather alerts are issued on our website, via weather forecasts on TV and radio as well as on our Twitter feed .

How should I prepare for snow and ice?

Before snow and ice

• Put grain or cat litter on paths and driveways to reduce the risk of slipping on compacted snow.
• Check on your neighbors vulnerable.
• If you must make a journey when snow is expected, make sure you have warm clothes, food, water, boots, a torch and spade, and let someone know when you plan to arrive and your route.
• Try to wait until the roads have been gritted before traveling.

During snow and ice

• If you go outside wear several layers of clothing and keep dry to prevent loss of body heat.
• Roads clear of snow before it freezes to reduce the risk of slipping on the ice.
• Beware of signs of hypothermia - uncontrollable shivering, slow speech / paste, memory lapse and drowsiness and frostbite - loss of sensation in appearance and pale fingers, toes, nose and ear lobes. Keep moving your arms and legs to help the blood circulate.
• Avoid travel if possible. If you must drive check the Highway Code for advice on driving in icy and snowy weather.

After snow and ice

• Be careful when walking or driving on compacted snow - it may be transformed into ice.
• Be careful when you shovel snow. Cold air makes it harder to work and breathe, which adds some extra strain on the body and can cause heart attacks in vulnerable months.

This year, the Met Office is hosting the Ready for Winter web pages on behalf of HM Government and partners. These pages host a series of information and tips to help you, your family and your community prepare for winter. This includes a page on the health and well-being that provides concrete steps you can take to help keep warm and healthy throughout the winter months.