A level 3 cold weather alert has been issued for the West Midlands.

This means we could be experiencing severe cold weather and icy conditions until Friday 20 January. This weather could increase the health risks to vulnerable people and disrupt the delivery of services.

In addition to keeping the streets of Sandwell safe by gritting them overnight, Sandwell Council is reminding residents to heat their home to at least 18°C which poses minimal risk to your health when you are wearing suitable clothing.

You can keep in the warmth by fitting draught proofing to seal any gaps around windows and doors and making sure you have loft and cavity wall insulation.

You can also visit a Warm Space if it is safe for you to get there – there are more than 60 in Sandwell including all libraries during opening hours. To find a Warm Space near you, visit sandwell.gov.uk/warmspaces.

Residents are also encouraged to look after others by checking on older neighbours or relatives, especially those living alone or who have serious illnesses to make sure they are safe, warm and well.
   
If you spot a rough sleeper, you can report this to Sandwell Council so they can help. Visit sandwell.gov.uk/roughsleepers for more information. Councillor Kerrie Carmichael, Leader of Sandwell Council, said:  

“It’s important that we all work together and check on each other to ensure that during this cost of living crisis everyone remains warm, safe and well.

“You can find further tips on how you can access support through our Supporting Sandwell information hub.“

During snowy or icy conditions, bin crews may not be able to get to your property to empty your bins safely. This may result in bin collections being delayed until conditions improve.

If your bins are not emptied on your usual day, you can check the bins and waste services service update webpage at sandwell.gov.uk.