At the time of writing (Wednesday December 20, 2017) the Met Office is forecasting temperatures through the Christmas period which are above freezing.
If it proves correct this may be a relief for many as freezing temperatures and ice can affect those with breathing or heart problems, as well as those who have difficulty walking – and there are others who struggle once the cold sets in.
I have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease which means my lungs are not working properly, though when I was born, probably prematurely, it was just called severe asthma.
So I wander around with an inhaler in my pocket and, if the temperature drops suddenly, my progress tends to be from bench to bench (and Rye needs a few more) or towards the nearest taxi.
A service that gives me and others advance warning of cold snaps is to be welcomed therefore, particularly if it gives overstretched A&E departments in hospitals a bit more of a breather.
The Warm East Sussex service is supported by the local county council and health bodies, and I learned of it through the newsletter put out by Rother voluntary organisations.
The aim is to warn such as I of cold snaps so we check our heating is in order and working, and so we also check that we have adequate food and medication in our home.
And it makes sense, as I do not have a car, to avoid a trek and possibly long wait in the Conquest Hospital in Hastings when I could have all the kit at home – and I check each month that I do, and check that it is not past its use-by date. And if necessary I restock by contacting my GP or the pharmacy.
My grandmother, widowed in one war and living in London during another, always kept a cupboard full of tinned food just in case and I do the same – although nowadays there is a wider choice. My personal preference when breathing is very difficult is chicken soup as a cure for most stomach rumbling.
So I’ve signed on for this service which offers alerts by phone, mobile or email, as it is always wise (though I was never in the Scouts) to be prepared.
And, with Christmas just round the corner, that reminds me that I need to do a last-minute check on inhalers. The service, however, goes much wider than just these alerts and you might need a home check as well, and advice on heating.
My house is only a couple of years old, and well insulated, but a lot of houses are much older – but can be improved, and there are many grants available. So check out the site.
Photo: Rye News Library
Photo: Rye News Library