Extreme Winter Weather:

1. Know What You’re Facing

• Cold-related health risks: Temperatures as mild as 4–8 °C can increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, influenza, and hypothermia, especially among older adults, young children, and those with long-term health conditions. 
• Slips and falls: Icy conditions significantly raise the risk of injuries. 
• Power outages and frozen pipes: Winter weather can lead to dangerous issues like burst pipes, carbon monoxide risks, and food spoilage. 

2. Before Winter Arrives

• Keep your home warm: Heat frequently used rooms—like living areas and bedrooms—to at least 18 °C. Use draft excluders and keep windows closed, especially at night. 
• Create an emergency kit: Stock essentials such as non-perishable food, bottled water, batteries, torches, blankets, and a first-aid kit. 
• Check on vulnerable neighbours: Ensure older people or those with medical conditions have adequate warmth and supplies. 
• Service your heating system: Have a professional check and service your heating before the cold really sets in. 
• Sign up for alerts and prepare with community: Check Met Office forecasts, consider joining local resilience groups, and stay informed. 

3. Dress, Move & Maintain Heat

• Layer up: Wear several thin layers rather than one thick garment for better warmth. 
• Protect your footing: Wear shoes with good grip to prevent slips on ice. 
• Stay active indoors: If it’s too cold outside, keep moving indoors to maintain circulation and warmth. 
• Eat and hydrate: Have hot meals and drinks regularly to help your body maintain core temperature. 

4. During Severe Cold / Snow

• Avoid unnecessary travel: Only go out when absolutely needed. Road surfaces can become dangerous quickly. 
• If you must drive: Use main roads if possible, leave plenty of time, and carry a winter kit (blankets, food, water, phone charger). 
• Prevent frozen pipes: If a thaw is expected, allow a slow drip from taps and open kitchen/ bathroom cabinet doors to warm pipes. 
• Avoid carbon monoxide risks: Never run generators indoors and ensure heating systems are well-ventilated. Headache, dizziness, or nausea could indicate CO exposure. 

5. Signs of Trouble

• Hypothermia warning signs: Shivering, confusion, slowed breathing, slurred speech, and fatigue require immediate response. 
• Frostbite indicators: Watch for redness, numbness, or pain in extremities (e.g. fingers, toes, nose). 

6. Resource Roundup

Resource	Use For
GOV.UK – Prepare for Winter Weather	Official guidance on staying warm and safe
Cold Weather Plan for England (PHE)	Detailed health advice, especially for vulnerable groups
Keep Warm & Well leaflet (GOV.UK)	Practical home-heating and draft-proofing tips
Red Cross – Tips on keeping warm this winter	Emergency kit checklists, care tips, and driving advice
Met Office – Get Ready for Winter	Weather alerts and seasonal readiness suggestions

Summary

Staying safe in extreme winter weather means preparing early, warming your home, looking after vulnerable people, dressing correctly, and having a plan for emergencies. Keep this one-page guide handy—it could make a real difference when the cold strikes.