With temperatures set to hit below freezing this weekend Croydon’s NHS is encouraging people to be prepared and take action during the cold spell.
Yellow weather warnings are in place across much of the country this weekend, with the Capital on alert for freezing temperatures, snow and rain.
Dr Subhro Banerjee, Chief Medical Officer at Croydon Health Services NHS Trust said: “As well as the increased risk of physical injuries from slips, trips and falls, older and more vulnerable residents living in our communities are at greater risk of heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia, and worsening arthritis during prolonged cold periods.
“That’s why it’s vital that we all take additional steps to keep warm, look after ourselves and check in on our friends and neighbours where we can.
“Simple actions, such as keeping your home heated to at least 18 degrees, wearing warm clothing and dress in layers and wearing sturdy footwear to reduce the risk of slipping on ice can make all the difference at this time of year.”
The NHS is also advising residents to take extra precautions against common winter illnesses, including flu, COVID-19 and norovirus.
Washing your hands regularly, staying at home for at least 48 hours if you have any symptoms such as a high temperature, cough, and diarrhoea or vomiting, and making sure you have your winter vaccinations, can help to keep you and your loved ones healthy.
Dr Banerjee said: “Like hospitals across the country, our Emergency Department is incredibly busy and we continue to prioritise those that are most seriously ill or injured.
“If you need urgent medical help, but it is not life threatening, we would encourage you to visit NHS 111 online or dial 111 in the first instance, where the teams can signpost you to the best NHS service for your care.”
Croydon council have also created a directory of Warm Spaces which will be open across the borough for those who need them.
A list of these spaces can be found here: https://www.croydon.gov.uk/warm-spaces-directory
More advice on keeping safe during the winter can be found here: www.nhs.uk
Pictured top: Central Library in Katherine Street, Croydon, offers a warm space for those in need (Picture: Google Street View)