A Level 3 Cold Weather Alert has been issued for all regions of England. These are issued when severe weather is occurring, when average temperatures have dropped to 2°C or below, and/or widespread ice and heavy snow is present.

Dr Angie Bone of Public Health England (PHE) said:

“The Met Office says that many places are going to feel really cold for the next few days, which may be a bit of a shock after our recent milder weather, so it’s really important people take extra care when out and about.

“It’s worth remembering that while most outdoor slips, trips and falls in weather like this are of those who are of working age, accidents can happen to anyone.

“If you’re staying indoors have plenty of warm food and drinks to stay warm. Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18°C, particularly if you are not mobile, have a long term illness or are over 65, and check weather forecasts and plan your day around them.

“Also take some time to think about how the bad weather may affect your friends and family, particularly if they are older or very young or have pre-existing health conditions. These groups can be particularly vulnerable. Remember that older people may not go outside to the shops, to hospital appointments and so on when weather is bad, so think what you could do to help them.

“Although most of our advice on keeping warm and well in cold weather may seem like common sense, it’s important to remember that cold kills, even in places where the temperatures aren’t at their lowest.”