Yellow Cold Alert - Jan 24

Another YELLOW cold health alert has been issues by the Met Office and UKHSA between 06/01/2024 at 09:00 and 09/01/2024 at 12:00 (this may change as forecasts change). 

The same guidance documents, key actions and advice shared with the previous YELLOW alert applies (see below). 

There is an increased risk of harm from cold weather amongst those in vulnerable groups - including those:

• aged over 65 years

• with cardiovascular and respiratory disease

• who are pregnant

• less able to respond to cold weather (including those with learning disability and those with mental health conditions and those on low income) 

Impacts of cold weather on health can include increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and respiratory infection amongst those vulnerable who are exposed to cold. Exposure to cold weather can also have a negative impact on mental health. 

Guidance for those working in adult social care is accessible here: Supporting vulnerable people before and during cold weather: for adult social care managers - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Key actions

• In addition to general measures around promoting COVID-19 and flu vaccines to those eligible, it is important to check-in on those at highest risk and to consider vulnerability to cold-related harm when engaging with clients. 

Key advice

• Get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19 if you are eligible to reduce risk of infection

• Keep regularly used rooms at 18 degrees of above if possible

• Wear multiple layers

• Stay active throughout the day

• Seek medical advice if unwell, calling 999 in an emergency

Patients can be supported by signposting to cost-of-living support services provided by the council to help with heating costs and can be made aware of local warm spaces (Warm Welcome Campaign). 

Leaflets on warm spaces and affordable food services are attached to support signposting.