Severe weather forecast across North West
On Thursday 5th December from 2am to 4pm severe winds are predicated across most of the UK with Cumbria, most of Lancashire and most of Greater Manchester being most affected.
Gusts in these areas are expected to reach 80mph in places and as high as 90mph in exposed areas (and in some areas may be accompanied by rain resulting in very poor driving conditions). Potential coastal flooding may also cause disruption within Cumbria.
May we ask service users and staff to allow plenty of travelling time if making journeys to our services and to take extra care when making these journeys.
For weather updates please visit the Met Office website and for any updates regarding our services please refer to this page.
Are you ready for winter?
As the winter weather approaches there are many things you can do to be prepared. GMW have written some guidance on how you can prepare your home for the winter time and how to drive safely in winter conditions.
- Are you ready for winter - Advice for the home [pdf] 581KB
- Driving safely in winter conditions [pdf] 581KB
Health advice during winter time
Get your flu jab if you are aged 65 or over, pregnant, have certain medical conditions, live in a residential or nursing home, or are the main carer for an older or disabled person. Ask your health or social care provider about staying healthy in winter and make sure you have sufficient medication if winter weather is forecast.
Keep warm. Maintain your heating to the right temperature: between 18°C/65°F (bedroom) and 21°C/70°F (dayroom), so you can keep warm and keep your bills as low as possible. Use room thermostats or other heating controls if you have them. Have a room thermometer so you can monitor the temperature indoors.
Look after yourself and check on older neighbours or relatives to make sure they are safe, warm and well. Layer your clothing and wear shoes with a good grip if you need to go outside.
Food is a vital source of energy, which helps to keep your body warm. Try to make sure that you have hot meals and drinks regularly throughout the day and keep active in the home if you can.
Get financial support. There are grants, benefits and sources of advice available to make your home more energy efficient, improve your heating or help with bills. It’s worthwhile claiming all the benefits you are entitled to and to access these before the winter sets in.
Have your heating and cooking appliances checked. Carbon monoxide is a killer. Make sure that flues and chimneys are swept and checked for blockages and ventilation points are not blocked. If not connected to gas or electricity mains, and use heating oil, LPG or wood products as the main heating source, make sure that you have a sufficient supply to avoid running
out in winter. You should also fit an audible carbon monoxide alarm which is EN 50291-compliant, but fitting an alarm should not replace regular maintenance of appliances.
NHS Choices continues to provide reliable advice and guidance throughout the year on how to keep fit and well.
