Get ready for winter

Sadly, although we are enjoying a mild period over the holidays, it is likely that winter will arrive in earnest in the New Year. Tower Hamlets Council has issued some advice to help us cope – especially the more vulnerable members of the community.

Flu
Flu likes to do the rounds in January. If you haven’t had a flu jab yet, do try to get one. Flu is not the same as the common cold. It is often more severe, lasts for longer and can result in having to going to hospital. People over the age of 65, even if they are fit and healthy, and those with certain medical conditions such as Chronic Heart Disease and Diabetes are more vulnerable to the effects of flu. Ask your GP if you can have the inoculation: you should be able to get the information from reception staff rather than having to go through the nightmare of making an appointment with a GP. Many pharmacists also offer flu jabs.

Keep warm
That’s easier said than done. However, people aged over 65 and those with long-term conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or respiratory illness are vulnerable if their surroundings become too cold. Being cold for too long can cause the blood to thicken, making the cold person more vulnerable to a heart attack. The Council’s advice is that people should heat their homes to least 18 degrees celsius (65 degrees farenheit) if at all possible. Wear layers and try to move around – don’t sit down for more than an hour at a time.
Dr Somen Banerjee, Director of Public Health at Tower Hamlets Council confirmed this advice, saying: “Winter is a time when it is important to be aware of how to stay warm and well in colder weather.  It’s especially important for the very young, older people and those that have a long term illness.”

Keep an eye on your neighbours
Tower Hamlets’ social housing estates are packed full of informal health workers – women who keep an eye on elderly and/or vulnerable neighbours. Keep up the good work!

Ice work if we can get it
The council has a winter service procedure to deal with cold snaps, or possible snowy weather. An emergency gritting operation is ready to swing into operation when roads and pavements become snowy or icy. Check your landlord has bought in enough “salt” or grit to treat the pedestrian areas around your block and/or estate – even quite well established social landlords have been known to forget.
During any severe winter weather the council provides regular updates about the status of its services on www.twitter.com/towerhamletsnow

Ready for school?
Tower Hamlets schools have promised that every effort will be made to keep schools open during periods of heavy snowfall – but this may not be possible if the weather is particularly severe or if there are particular local circumstances. If in doubt over whether your children’s school will be opening, contact the school direct.

And finally: cross your fingers the weather is kind to us this year!