With temperatures falling in London, residents in Harrow are being urged to take precautions to stay safe during the colder weather. The Chief Medical Officer at London Ambulance Service has asked people to only call 999 in a life-threatening emergency and to follow advice to protect themselves and others from the risks associated with the cold.
Harrow Council announced on social media: “The temperature is dropping tonight so our Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP) is in place for the safety of anyone sleeping rough. If you see someone needing help send an alert via thestreetlink.org.uk/start
Find out more: https://tinyurl.com/swepactive!”
Dr Fenella Wrigley, Chief Medical Officer at London Ambulance Service, said: “With temperatures plunging and snow falling in the capital, please make sure you wrap up warm and wear suitable clothing and footwear for the conditions if you’re going outside – especially if it’s icy or snowing.
“Wearing two or three lighter layers can keep you warmer than one woolly or thick jumper.
“Please also look out for family, friends and neighbours who may be at risk and vulnerable in colder weather. If you know someone is on their own – please do reach out to them.
“For those who may be isolated and struggling in colder weather, just popping in for a cup of tea to say hello and making sure they are stocked with groceries and their heating is working would make such a difference.”
Existing health conditions can get worse in the cold so make sure you have enough of any medication you need and keep vital medication with you if you are out and about.
Dr Wrigley added: “Our teams are always here to help if you need us. We are extremely busy at the moment so we are asking the public to help us where possible.
“That includes following cold weather advice, using our service wisely and contacting your GP, pharmacy or NHS 111 if you need medical advice fast or unsure what to do.”
If you’re concerned about someone sleeping rough – but it’s not an emergency situation – you can contact the organisation StreetLink. They help connect people who are sleeping rough to local services to support them. If it’s an emergency, call 999.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
He launched Harrow Online in 2010 as a Facebook page sharing local news and information. Since then, it has grown into a trusted source for breaking news, crime, council decisions, planning, transport, business and community stories across the borough.
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