PHE: keep home heated to 18 degrees

Public Health England (PHE) has advised people to keep their homes heated to at least 18 degrees as part of a series of recommendations to keep well as more cold weather is set to arrive.

The news come as the Met Office has forecast bad weather in all parts of England, with widespread snow and ice expected and likely to persist until Sunday 15 January.

In its statement, PHE urged people to take action to keep themselves and others warm and well over the coming days.

Professor Paul Cosford, director for Health Protection and medical director at PHE, said: “The Met Office is forecasting a spell of colder weather from this afternoon, with likely snow and icy conditions. Think now about what you need to do to prepare: if you need vital medicine or food get it before the bad weather arrives. People with underlying health conditions, very young children and those aged over 65 are at greatest risk, so think what you can do to help others.

Gosford added: “Keeping your home heated to at least 18°C, wearing lots of thin layers instead of fewer thicker ones, and (if you have to head out) using footwear with a good grip are all ways to deal with this weather and stay well this winter.”