THE Department of Health has issued a plea to local residents to urge them to remember the elderly, vulnerable, and ill during the current cold spell.
Elderly relatives, neighbours, and people with serious illnesses are "particularly vulnerable" at this time.
Those with heart or breathing problems may have worse symptoms during a cold spell and for several days after temperatures return to normal.
Minister for Health David Anderson MHK said: "It is very important that we are well prepared for the very cold weather conditions we are currently experiencing and will continue to experience during the next week.
"Please remember to look out for people who you know are unwell or vulnerable. Our community relies on everyone being good neighbours. Preparing for winter by following some simple suggestions can help people stay healthy and safe."
Ways to help include collecting shopping, fuel, and checking they have heat. If you yourself are unable to leave the house consider using a local home delivery service or asking friends, neighbours, or relatives to collect provisions for you.
The Department has warned that the health services may be very busy and patients are asked to tolerate some delay in being seen at their GP or A and E.
Top tips for keeping warm:
• Eat well and regularly. Food is a vital source of energy which helps to keep the body warm. Have regular hot drinks and at least one hot meal a day if possible. Eating regularly helps keep energy levels up during winter.
• Wear several thin layers of clothing as this traps body heat better than one thick layer. Clothes made from wool, cotton, or fleecy fibres are best.
• Keep curtains drawn and doors closed to block out draughts.
• Try to keep room temperatures at 21°C (70F) in main rooms during the day or if you can't try to keep at least one room warm.
• Your bedroom should be above 18°C – set heating timers to come on before you get up and go off after you've gone to bed.
• If you use a fire or heater in your bedroom be sure to open a window or door a little at night for ventilation. All heating appliances should be checked. About 50 people die each year in England due to Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning and most of this happens during such periods. Closed windows and doors plus a faulty heating appliance working continuously provides the ideal conditions for CO poisoning.
• Use a hot water bottle or an electric blanket to stay warm in bed - not both. Electric blankets should be tested at least every three years.
• Keep as active as possible and wrap up warm if you need to go outside on cold days.
• Wear a hat when outdoors as you lose a considerable amount of heat through your head. To prevent falling wear flat, dry, non-slip shoes or boots.
