DEADLY: Bassetlaw found to be one of the ‘worst areas’ in Notts for tragic winter deaths

Bassetlaw was found to be one of the 'worst areas' in the county for winter deaths. Picture by Martin Bostock.

A report published by the Notts Health and Wellbeing Board found that elderly residents are most at risk, with Bassetlaw laying claim to the highest death rate among people aged over 85 during the winter of 2012/2013.

Figures also show that Bassetlaw has the highest proportion of people in fuel poverty in the county.

Mary Corcoran, public health consultant for Notts, told the Guardian: “As fuel costs are so expensive, we understand that some people may be reluctant to heat their homes properly.

“But this can be a matter of life and death, and we are urging anyone who is struggling to seek advice at the Bassetlaw Action Centre where they can receive eadvice on how to keep their homes warm. There are also grants available and boiler replacements for those who are especially in need.”

Coun Joyce Bosnjak, Nottinghamshire County Council’s Public Health committee chairman, said : “Cold homes can have a significant impact on people’s health and can lead to serious health problems such as heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia and depression. Keeping your home warm is the first step to staying healthy during the winter months.”

With snow storms and sub-zero temperatures expected to hit the region as soon as late October, the council has issued the following tips for keeping warm and safe.

* Your living room should be between 18 – 21C and the rest of the house at a minimum of 16C

* Get heating, radiators and boilers serviced to reduce the risk of a breakdown in cold weather

* Have chimneys swept

* Have a least one warm meal a day

* Stay warm in bed with socks and thermal underwear

* Set heating to come on before you get up and switch off when you go to bed

* Try to be active during the day

* Look after elderly relatives and neighbours

* Check if you are entitled to Cold Weather Payments

* Don’t miss out on Winter Fuel payments

* Have your free flu jab (if aged over 65)

You can contact the Bassetlaw Action Centre on 01777 709650.