27 November 2015
Scottish people are being urged to take time now to prepare for winter rather than wait until severe weather strikes, says NHS Borders.
NHS Borders is supporting the Scottish Government’s ‘Ready for Winter?’ campaign, aimed at ensuring people are ready in their homes, workplaces, communities and when they travel for whatever weather we experience this winter.
Research commissioned by the Scottish Government has identified that two thirds of Scottish households believe they could do more to prepare for winter or have not done anything. Taking a few simple actions in advance can save a lot of time and trouble later.
Dr Tim Patterson, Joint Director of Public Health in the Scottish Borders said: “If there is anything recent winters have shown us it is that Scottish weather is unpredictable.
“In recent years, most parts of Scotland have been affected by severe weather ranging from snow and freezing temperatures to high winds and flooding. While extreme weather can happen at any time of year, winter remains the time of greatest risk.
“The unpredictability of weather patterns means we cannot simply hope that we will miss the worst of it. While we can’t stop the weather causing disruption, we can be well prepared to cope with it.
“We are delighted to support the Scottish Government in this important campaign.”
Background
The Scottish Government’s ‘Ready for Winter?’ campaign provides information and advice on how to prepare and cope with severe weather including snow, ice, flooding and high winds.
The research published today looks at emergency preparedness in Scotland in 2015. The research was carried out by YouGovPlc during 30 October – 03 November 2015 and a total of 1,026 interviews were carried out. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all adults in Scotland (aged 18+).
For more information please see www.readyscotland.org