Knowsley Metropolitan Borough Council : Staying warm and well this winter

With warnings of cold weather on its way to Knowsley this weekend and early next week, it's important to stay warm and well during the cold snap.

The Met Office is warning that from Saturday 6 January and Tuesday 09 January there is an 80% possibility of severe cold with widespread frosts.

This cold snap can be dangerous for a number of people, including older people, babies and young children. If you have elderly or vulnerable neighbours or friends, you may want to check on them to ensure they are managing to keep warm and well during the cold spell.

Follow our top tips to ensure you stay safe and warm:

• Have plenty of hot food and drinks.
• Wear lots of thin layers (clothes made from cotton, wool or fleecy fibres).
• Homes should be heated to the right temperature: at least 18°C (65˚F)
• If you can't heat all the rooms you use, heat the living room during the day and your bedroom just before you go to bed.
• Check on elderly and vulnerable relatives and neighbours.
• If you have a gas/solid fuel appliance/boiler, consider getting an audible carbon monoxide alarm and test it weekly - it can save your life.
• Keep heaters and fires away from clothes, blankets and other combustible materials.
• Electric blankets - check the wires are not frayed and they are safe to use. Don't leave them on unattended.

For advice and information on keeping warm, or to discuss any grants that may be available, please contact Simon Rugen on 443 5817.

More information can be found on The Met Office website.