A ten point action plan to keep
elderly residents safe and warm this winter has been
developed.
Hambleton and Richmondshire Strategic Forum
joined forces with Age UK to launch its winter weather campaign
last month - with a series of posters and leaflets, packed with
useful telephone numbers, information on snow clearing, dealing
with power cuts and finding tradesmen.
It will also see two emergency helplines
opened when severe weather conditions strike. The lines –
which will be manned through the district council contact centres –
will give residents a single point of contact for
information.
Hambleton residents should call 0845 1211 555
and Richmondshire’s 01748 829100.
And Forum members say that following the ten
point plan will mean everyone is ready when the severe cold sets
in:
- Have the heating system serviced and the chimney swept
- Check with your fuel supplier for advice on winter stocks
- Check the water stopcock is working correctly
- Make sure the smoke alarm is in order
- Check the electric blanket has been serviced - they
should be done once every three years
- Buy some warm boots with non slip soles
- Keep a mixture of salt and sand handy to use on icy paths
- Keep flu, cold and sore throat remedies in the house – and make
sure you are up to date with prescription drugs
- Have a flu jab
- Keep basic foods in the cupboards and freezer
“Over the last two winters the severe weather
has kept many people indoors – and those that have ventured out
have put themselves at risk,” said Paul Fisher, Manager, Age UK
North Yorkshire
“We are asking that everyone is a ‘good
neighbour’, whatever the age of the person living next door – that
could be making sure they are ready for the bad weather as well as
during any cold spells clearing snow, collecting prescriptions,
doing shopping, or just simply being there for a chat.”.
The campaign has seen a series of new leaflets
produced and distributed through Age UK at flu jab clinics.
They are also available at district council offices in
Northallerton, Stokesley, Easingwold, Richmond, Colburn, Reeth,
Hawes and Leyburn; and at libraries across the two districts.
November 15, 2011
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