NHS inform cold weather safety guidance updated

NHS inform published updated guidance on staying safe in cold weather on 21 September 2026, covering the health problems cold weather can cause, who is most at risk and how households can prepare¹. The page is sourced to Public Health Scotland and carries a last updated date of 21 September 2026¹.

The guidance states that cold weather can increase the risk of a heart attack, stroke and respiratory infection such as flu, and that it "can worsen symptoms if you have existing breathing problems or heart conditions"¹. It adds that cold weather can also cause hypothermia and increase the risk of falls¹. Among the reasons given for the higher risk in winter are poor quality housing, which "means houses can get very cold", more common infectious diseases such as flu and norovirus, and physical hazards such as snow and ice¹.

The groups listed as more at risk are people aged 65 or over, people with underlying health conditions including heart, lung or mental health conditions, children particularly aged 5 and under, pregnant women, and people who are housebound or have low mobility¹. The guidance also names housing and economic circumstances that raise risk: sleeping rough, experiencing homelessness, living in homes that are harder to keep warm, and being unable to afford fuel and heating costs¹.

On preparation, the guidance advises checking that there is enough food, medicines and heating fuel "in case it becomes harder to leave the house", and speaking to a local pharmacist with questions about medication¹. It advises that people and their families are up to date with vaccines if eligible¹. On the home, it says the increased use of fuel-burning appliances such as gas heaters and boilers in winter can raise the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, and advises regular gas safety checks and a carbon monoxide alarm that is BS EN 50291 compliant¹. Suggested home improvements include draught-proofing, insulation and more energy-efficient heating appliances, with grants and benefits findable through mygov.scot and advice from Home Energy Scotland¹.

The guidance also advises checking in on vulnerable or older family members, friends and neighbours, and says that if possible the home should be heated to at least 18ºC in rooms that are regularly used¹. It recommends wearing several layers of thin clothing instead of one thick layer, and staying connected with friends and family online or by phone if unable to get out¹. It notes that cold weather can increase the likelihood of condensation forming inside the home, which left untreated can lead to damp and mould¹.

Why it matters for households

The guidance is aimed at households across Scotland and covers risks that apply through the coming winter, from the date of publication¹. It sets out who may need extra support, including older people, those with existing health conditions and people unable to afford heating, and advises households to keep enough food, medicines and heating fuel at home in case leaving the house becomes harder¹. It advises checking National Severe Weather Warnings for the area and following any advice given, and checking in on vulnerable or older family members, friends and neighbours¹. The Met Office has advice on driving and cycling in cold weather, which the guidance links to¹. Households preparing for winter conditions can read more in the guide to staying well in cold weather, and the storms and snow hub covers related disruption.

What happens next

No further publication or update date beyond 21 September 2026 has been reported¹.