Be prepared for an emergency

Vulnerable people

Sign up to the Priority Services Register(external link). This is a service offered by energy suppliers and network operators aimed at people who are vulnerable. Signing up to this can help you or your loved ones get additional support from utility and network providers both day-to-day and during unexpected emergencies.
For lots more useful advice visit the Stay Well page(external link) on the NHS website.

Register with the Environment Agency(external link) for flood notifications so that you have early warning of any local risks.
The Flooding and Drainage section of our website also provides advice on how to prepare for and manage flood risk.
If you do need to report any instances of flooding, you can find more information on the Gov.uk website(external link).

The Met Office website(external link) provides a range of advice for winter readiness including road safety while driving, understanding weather warnings and how to keep your home warm in the winter.
Register for Met Office Weather Warnings(external link) to ensure you and your loved ones are prepared for severe weather.

where possible avoid going out in the sun during the hottest times of the day, (between 11am and 3pm)
if you are planning on doing physical activity aim to do It in the morning or evening as it will be cooler
keep windows and curtains in rooms that face the sun closed
open windows at night to cool your home and closed in the day when the temperature outside is hotter
wear appropriate hats, sunglasses, seek shade and apply sunscreen
drink plenty of fluids, limiting alcohol intake
check on those who are more vulnerable and make arrangements with family and friends to check up on yourself if you are at higher risk
be aware of the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke

Look out for friends and family who may be vulnerable to the cold and ensure they have access to warm food and drink, and are managing to heat their homes adequately.
Try to maintain indoor temperatures to at least 18°C, particularly if you are not mobile, have long term illness, or are 65 or over.
Stay tuned for weather forecasts, ensure you are stocked with food and medications in advance (you can order deliveries or ask a friend to help).
Take weather into account when planning your activity over the following days.
Avoid exposing yourself to cold or icy outdoor conditions if you are at a higher risk of cold related illness or falls.
Discuss with friends and neighbours about clearing snow and ice from in front of your house and public walkways nearby, if you are unable to do so yourself.

Surrey Heath Borough Council share key information through our social media platforms such as Facebook(external link) and Twitter(external link). Please follow, like and share on these pages to keep you and your networks informed.