Take extra care as severe weather approaches

Date published: 31 January 2008

Heywood, Middleton and Rochdale Primary Care Trust (HMRPCT) is urging the public to take extra care as a severe weather warning has today been issued by the Met Office.  The North West, along with a number of UK regions, will experience a marked change in the weather during Friday 1st February and then persisting until at least Sunday 3 February. 

With the forecast predicting hazardous road conditions, we would encourage the public to think about whether their journey is necessary. If it is, then wrap up warm, wear sensible shoes and take care whilst walking or driving.  Many accidents in these conditions are largely avoidable, such as slips, trips and falls.  It is worth noting that elderly people, even in their own homes, can be at risk of hypothermia so please look out for your elderly relatives and neighbours. Helping elderly people with essential shopping during adverse weather can prevent them falling and sustaining significant injuries in slippery conditions.

Historically, the North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) experiences an increase in emergency calls during periods of adverse weather and NWAS is increasing resources to meet the expected rise in demand. However, people should think before they dial 999 - it is important that the ambulance service has the maximum resources available to deal with genuine emergencies.  If somebody does have a medical concern that is not a 999 emergency, the NHS has a range of services enabling patients to get the right treatment at the right time:

• A&E or 999 – for critical or life threatening situations.
• NHS Walk-in Centre – for treatment of minor illness or injuries, without an appointment.
• GP – for medical advice, examinations and prescriptions for illness you just can’t shake off.
• Pharmacist – for advice on common winter illnesses, and the best medicines to treat them.
• NHS Direct – for absolutely any health questions, around the clock, and to find local services.
• Self Care – for treatment of minor winter illnesses, by combining a well-stocked medicine cabinet with plenty of rest.