Bedford residents are urged to look out for vulnerable family members and neighbours as the region is expected to experience severe cold weather this week.
The ‘level three’ cold weather warning has been issued by the Met Office for the East of England between Wednesday 7 and Monday 12 December and could cause major health risks to residents.
The severity of the warning triggers actions in the NHS, public health, social care and other community organisations, to support vulnerable people who have health issues that increase their risk of harm.
Cllr Louise Jackson, Portfolio Holder for Health and Wellbeing at Bedford Borough Council, said: “Cold weather can impact anyone, but people with underlying health problems, older people and those who are frail, are at greater risk.
“Direct effects of winter weather include an increase in the incidence of heart attacks, strokes, respiratory diseases such as influenza, falls, injuries and hypothermia.
“We’re also urging people to look after vulnerable family members and neighbours and to assist their local community. Taking measures to stay warm and helping others to do the same can make a life-changing difference.”
Bedford Borough Council has launched its Warm Spaces Network and is urging residents to use the spaces, especially in this cold spell.
“The Warm Spaces are free for anyone to use and will provide a welcoming place for people to stay warm, enjoy a hot drink and food, and socialise with others if they wish,” said Cllr Jackson
“If you’d like to find out more about the Warm Spaces in Bedford Borough, go to bedford.gov.uk/Warm-Spaces.”
