Advice offered on tackling hazards amid big freeze

'CHECK IN ON YOUR VULNERABLE NEIGHBOURS'

- By GEORGE PALMER-SOADY

PEOPLE have been urged to check in on vulnerable neighbours amid fears a bitter spell of cold weather could lead to a rise in deaths, extra pressure on the NHS and transport disruption.

On New Year's Eve, the government's UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), announced an amber cold weather alert would be in place until 10am on Tuesday, January 6.

The alert, which covers the entire East Midlands, is sent out to NHS providers, local authorities, and social care organisations.

The UKHSA, which is tasked with protecting the health of the nation, says the weather is likely to have a "significant impact" on services and put lives at risk.

Temperatures as low as -4C are forecast for Nottingham this weekend, but a bitterly cold wind chill will make it feel more like -8C.

A Nottingham City Council spokesman said: "During the amber cold weather alert, we're sharing clear, practical advice with residents, including winter travel guidance and information about gritting on priority routes.