Being prepared for Severe Weather
When Severe Weather Strikes
Extreme Winter Weather
Heavy snow, blizzards, dense fog, gales, heavy rain and widespread ice -can greatly disrupt daily routines and, in some cases, cause loss of life. The elderly, infirm, disabled and young can be particularly vulnerable.
Suffolk County Council has a key role to play in such situations. Together with district and parish councils, the police, the fire and rescue service and various agencies, they provide a wide range of services, to help return the situation to normal, quickly and efficiently, alleviating suffering and even saving lives in the process.
Individuals also have a vital role to play. Being a good neighbour, aware of those who are particularly vulnerable, is particularly important.
The following hints are designed to help reduce discomfort and save lives.
For the car
- Ample fuel.
- De-icer.
- A shovel.
- A radio and spare batteries.
- A torch.
- A blanket.
- Spare warm clothing.
- Water or a warm drink.
For the home
- An easily accessible supply of candles, matches, batteries and a torch.
- A battery-operated radio tuned to your local radio station.
- A stock of food.
- A list of useful telephone numbers -police, library, social services office etc.
- Portable camping gas cooker if you rely solely on electricity.
Remember
- Heed the advice when told not to travel .
- Stowaway garden furniture and remove loose articles from outside. These might cause damage in a storm.
- Make sure your emergency equipment is at hand.
- If you have elderly, infirm or disabled neighbours, tell them to contact you if they need help -and keep an eye on them.
If you rely on one source of energy for heating, lighting or are operating essential equipment - make sure you have adequate standby arrangements.
Extreme heat in the Summer
Why is a heatwave a problem?
The main health risks posed by a heatwave are:
- Not having enough water (dehydration).
- Overheating, which can make symptoms worse for people who already have problems with their heart or breathing.
- Heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which are potentially serious conditions that can occur if you get too hot.
The top ways to stay safe when the heat arrives are to:
- Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated. Older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk.
- If you live alone, ask a relative or friend to phone to check that you are not having difficulties during periods of extreme heat.
- Stay cool indoors: Close curtains on rooms that face the sun to keep indoor spaces cooler and remember it may be cooler outdoors than indoors.
- Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol.
- Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.
- Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest.
- Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat.
- Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day.
- Make sure you take water with you if you are travelling.
- Check the latest weather forecast and temperature warnings – you can find these on TV, radio, or website Weather and climate change - Met Office
- During warm weather going for a swim can provide much welcomed relief, take care and follow local safety advice, if you are going into open water to cool down.
For more information regarding how to be weather ready take a look at the Met Office website
Tips and advice from Suffolk County Council to help you and your loved ones look after your money, health and wellbeing and safety during the colder months.
Being prepared for Winter Matters.
Suffolk County Council have brought together a range of tips and advice to support you and your family, as well as information to keep you up to date with what is happening in Suffolk this winter.
Visit their website for more information.
