30th January 2012
Homeowners must take safety precautions during cold snap
Households should take steps to protect themselves and their homes during the cold snap which is predicted to hit Britain.
Temperatures are expected to plummet as low as minus ten degrees Celsius, thanks to an onslaught of raw Siberian winds from the east.
The Met Office has issued weather warnings throughout the UK.
In South Wales an amber warning has been set, with snow fall predicted to reach at last ten centimetres in the coming week.
The UK is most likely about to experience the longest spell of cold weather for some time, following one of the mildest winters ever recorded.
At the moment, it is uncertain whether mild temperatures or cold conditions will prevail in the coming months.
Met Office chief forecaster Chris Tubbs said: "At the moment we have a high pressure system over eastern Europe trying to push cold air in from the east, while milder Atlantic air is trying to push in from the west.
"The colder air is set to win over the next few days, bringing a risk of snow to western areas on Monday morning.
"Looking further ahead into February, there is uncertainty over how this finely balanced situation will play out, with colder conditions more likely to dominate but milder weather could still return."
There are a number of precautions that homeowners should take.
Consumers should check pipes to make that they are adequately lagged, and ensure that they have ordered their winter heating fuel.
Lower temperatures can be particularly harmful toward older people, as they raise blood pressure and increase the risk of a cardiac arrest or stroke.
It is particularly important to look after one's health during extremely cold weather.
People are advised to eat well and stay active, and take care in icy conditions.
During very severe weather, motorists should not make any non-essential journeys.
However, if they do need to travel, they should ensure that their vehicle is stocked with emergency supplies including food, clothing and blankets.
In addition, consumers should also find out whether or not they are eligible for grants or subsidiaries for home heating and insulation.
Posted by Victor Onuohae
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