The deep freeze descending on the Richmond area has seen the Met Office issue a Level 3 Cold Weather Alert.

There is a 90% probability of severe cold and icy conditions through until 9am on Friday, including the whole of London.

Very cold nights are expected, with potentially severe widespread frosts, while daytime temperatures are expected to sit near to or just above freezing.

Richmond Borough Council has outlined how residents can cope with the cold, stay warm and weather the current financial storm.

Public Health advice

The Council warned that cold weather can have a serious impact on health, and it is therefore important to try and heat the rooms you use to at least 18°C if you can, particularly if you have reduced mobility, are 65 and over, or have a health condition such as heart or lung disease.

Overnight, people who are 65 and over or who have pre-existing health conditions may find bedroom temperatures of at least 18°C are good for their health.

If you can't heat all the rooms you use, heat the living room during the day and your bedroom just before you go to sleep.

If you have an electric blanket, use it as instructed. Never use a hot water bottle with an electric blanket.

Do not use a gas cooker or oven to heat your home; it is inefficient and there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Cost of living support and Warm Spaces

The Council has set aside a fund of £3m to help residents. Details can be found here – https://richmond.gov.uk/services/cost_of_living_hub

The Council and a number of community groups are offering 'Warm Spaces' for people to find refuge from the cold and high bills. Details can be found here – https://richmond.gov.uk/services/cost_of_living_hub/warm_spaces

South West London Energy Advice Partnership are available to offer detailed advice for those who are struggling with energy bills, are on benefits, have long term health conditions, are over 65, have children under five, speak English as a second language or are otherwise finding it hard to manage at the moment. Details can be found here - https://swleap.org.uk/energy-advice/

The Council said: "Being cold isn't just uncomfortable, it can be bad for your health.

Sitting or sleeping in a cold room is not good for you and increases the risk of heart attacks, stroke and breathing problems. Keep your bedroom windows closed on a winter's night; breathing cold air can increase the risk of chest infections.

"Try not to sit for more than an hour, get up and walk around, make a hot drink and spread housework throughout the day. Visit our Richmond Moves page for support to get started moving more.

"Wear a few layers of thin clothing rather than one thick layer; this will trap the heat better to keep you warm."

It added: "Prepare for cold weather. Stock up on tinned and frozen foods, warm clothes and any medication so you don't have to go out too much when it's cold or icy."

The Council also advised residents to check on frail or older neighbours or relatives, especially those living alone or who have serious illnesses.