Top tips on staying healthy and safe during cold weather

With freezing temperatures set to continue, Rugby Liberal Democrats are urging people to think about how cold weather could affect vulnerable members of our community.

Cold weather can lead to serious health problems and can kill. Older people, those with chronic health conditions and people who have a disability, are particularly at risk during the cold weather.

Rugby Lib Dems are encouraging people to be good neighbours, to check in on friends, relatives and those nearby who may be vulnerable to the cold and make sure they have enough food and medications when the weather gets colder.

Top tips on staying healthy and safe during cold weather include:

• Keep warm - heat your home to at least 18 degrees C (65F)
• Wear a few layers of thin clothing rather than one thick layer; this will trap the heat better to keep you warm.
• Eat well - food gives you energy, which helps to keep you warm, so try to have regular hot meals and hot drinks throughout the day

All residents are also reminded to check the conditions before they travel. Warwickshire's fleet of gritters was poised and ready to take on the snow when it arrived to help keep roads moving across the county.

For anyone living in Warwickshire who needs advice and is worried about keeping their home warm, there is a free service, run by Act on Energy. The service can also help with fuel bills and benefits advice entitlements, including whether you are eligible for heating and insulation measures, so call 0800 988 2881 or see information leaflet.

Residents 16 or over whose financial circumstances make it difficult to purchase food or fuel are also invited to enquire about the County Council's welfare scheme on 01926 410410 or online at warwickshire.gov.uk/welfarescheme. The scheme supports people with responsibilities for others and limited means to support themselves.

For information about any closures or disruptions, gritting updates and driving advice visit https://warwickshire.gov.uk/snow