Stay well, stay safe, be winter ready.
Winter can bring colder weather, darker days and an increased risk of
illness and accidents, but a little preparation can make a big difference.
This winter, we’re encouraging communities across the North East to be winter ready by taking simple steps to protect themselves, look out for others and prepare for the seasonal risks that colder months can bring.
Our winter safety advice focuses on three key areas:
- Staying safe on winter roads and preparing for severe weather
- Protecting yourself and others from flu and winter illnesses
- Managing respiratory conditions, including asthma and COPD
From preparing your vehicle for colder weather to keeping medicines and inhalers to hand, getting vaccinated if you’re eligible and checking in on someone who may need extra support, there are simple things we can all do to stay safer and healthier this winter.
Explore the advice below to help you and those around you be winter ready:
Click the drop down menus below to find out more about how to stay safe this winter:
Winter conditions and darker nights
Ice, snow, heavy rain, poor visibility and darker nights can create additional risks on the region's roads.
A journey that feels routine can become much more dangerous when roads are icy, visibility is poor or darkness falls earlier. Slowing down, leaving more space between vehicles and checking your vehicle before setting off can help prevent collisions.
Before setting off:
- Check tyres, lights, oil, coolant and screen wash
- Clear windows, mirrors and lights thoroughly
- Check weather and travel updates
- Allow extra time for journeys
- Drive according to the conditions, not the speed limit
- Leave a larger gap between you and the vehicle in front
- Carry warm clothing, a charged mobile phone and essential supplies
Walking, cycling and motorcycling safely
Darker nights can make it harder for other road users to see you.
Remember to:
- Wear bright or reflective clothing
- Use lights when cycling
- Take extra care when crossing roads
- Stay alert and avoid distractions
If severe weather is forecast, consider whether your journey is essential and avoid unnecessary travel where possible.
During severe weather:
If severe weather is forecast:
- Check conditions before setting off
- Consider whether your journey is necessary
- Never drive through floodwater where the depth or road condition is unknown
- Avoid driving when tired
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Avoid distractions while driving
If a collision happens
Call 999 if someone is seriously injured, trapped or in immediate danger.
If it is safe to do so:
- Provide the exact location and direction of travel - download the free 'What 3 Words' app
- Tell the call handler about any hazards, such as fuel, fire, fast-moving traffic or damaged power lines
- Never put yourself at risk by entering a live carriageway
Winter illnesses such as flu can affect anyone, but they can be particularly serious for older people, young children, pregnant people and those with underlying health conditions.
Getting vaccinated is one of the most important steps eligible people can take to protect themselves and reduce the risk of passing flu to someone more vulnerable. It also helps protect families, communities and health services during a busy time of year.
Protect yourself this winter
If you're eligible for a flu vaccination, take up the offer and encourage eligible family members and friends to do the same.
You can also help reduce the spread of winter illnesses by:
- Keeping essential medicines at home
- Ordering repeat prescriptions in good time
- Resting, keeping warm and drinking plenty of fluids when unwell
- Avoiding close contact with vulnerable people if you are ill
- Seeking advice early when you need support
Getting the right help
For many winter illnesses and minor health concerns, support is available from:
- Community pharmacies
- GP practices
- NHS 111 online or by phone
Always call 999 if someone is experiencing a life-threatening emergency.
Supporting people with asthma, COPD and other respiratory conditions
Cold weather and seasonal illnesses can affect people living with asthma, COPD and other respiratory conditions, making it especially important to plan ahead for winter.
Planning ahead can make a real difference. Keeping medicines accessible, following your treatment plan and seeking advice early can help you manage your condition and reduce the risk of becoming seriously unwell.
If you live with a respiratory condition:
- Continue taking prescribed medication as directed
- Check that inhalers and medicines are available and in date
- Order repeat prescriptions before bank holidays or severe weather
- Follow any asthma, COPD or respiratory action plan provided by a healthcare professional
- Keep warm and avoid sudden exposure to very cold air where possible
- Check whether you are eligible for flu or other seasonal vaccinations
- Seek advice if symptoms begin to worsen
- Make sure relatives or carers know where medicines and care plans are kept
Know the warning signs
Signs that you may need advice or an urgent clinical assessment can include:
- Worsening breathlessness
- Increased coughing
- Changes in phlegm
- Needing reliever medication more frequently
- Being less able to carry out normal daily activities
Everyone's condition is different, so it is important to follow the advice provided by your healthcare professional
Call 999 if someone:
Call 999 immediately if someone:
- Is struggling to breathe
- Cannot speak normally because of breathlessness
- Becomes unresponsive
- Appears to be experiencing a life-threatening emergency
For non-life-threatening concerns, support is available from your GP practice, community pharmacy or NHS 111.
Everyone can take simple steps now to prepare for winter. Plan ahead, stay protected.
