Further to the level alert 2 issued on 27 January, the levels across England have now risen to Level 3.
The Met Office has confirmed that all regions of England are now experiencing severe cold weather, defined as Level 3 alert. The Met Office website’s ‘Winter Weather Warning Service’ page provides further details.
Low temperatures can be dangerous, especially for the very young or very old or those with chronic disease. Advice on how to reduce the risk either for yourself or for somebody you know is available from NHS Choices, the Department of Health - Cold Weather plan for England, or NHS Direct on 0845 4647, or from your local GP or pharmacist.
For health and social care providers, the purpose of this message is to draw your attention to the advice set out in the Public Health Cold Weather Plan.
Specific advice on steps that may be followed by health care professionals and the managers and staff of residential and nursing homes in the event of severe cold weather is available from the Department of Health - Cold Weather plan for England.