{"id":58936,"date":"2023-01-16T16:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-01-16T16:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.devon.gov.uk\/news\/?p=58936"},"modified":"2023-01-17T09:42:31","modified_gmt":"2023-01-17T09:42:31","slug":"stay-warm-and-look-out-for-others-at-risk-of-cold-weather","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.devon.gov.uk\/news\/stay-warm-and-look-out-for-others-at-risk-of-cold-weather\/","title":{"rendered":"Stay warm and look out for others at risk of cold weather"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is encouraging people to stay warm and to look out for those most at risk from the effects of cold weather.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Their message comes as the country experiences another particularly cold spell, with brisk winds, wintry showers and icy conditions likely, forecast to last until the end of this week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Dr Agostinho Sousa, Head of Extreme Events and Health Protection at the UKHSA said:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“Cold weather can have a serious impact on health, particularly older people and those with pre-existing health conditions, as it increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes and chest infections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

“During this period, it is important to check in on family, friends, and relatives who may be more vulnerable to the cold weather. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, or are over the age of 65, it is important to try and heat your home to at least 18 degrees Centrigrade if you can.”<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n

The Met Office has warned that ice is likely to be hazard for much of the week, impacting on travel conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The UKHSA say exposure to low indoor temperatures can have a serious impact on your health as you get older. They advise:<\/p>\n\n\n\n