WITH the big freeze expected to continue, regional health bosses are urging Christmas partygoers to wrap up warm, drink responsibly and look after themselves to avoid the risk of hypothermia.

Health Service officials are warning that alcohol numbs the senses and thins the blood, making hypothermia more likely. If it is not treated quickly, it can be fatal.

Stephen Groves, head of emergency preparedness at NHS North-East, said: “It is important that people understand the health risks of excessive alcohol consumption and that they drink responsibly and, importantly, wrap up warm when they are out enjoying themselves. Alcohol seriously inhibits the senses and, in such freezing temperatures, people may well be suffering from hypothermia without even realising it.

“Hypothermia is also a serious concern for older people, who might be prone to falls or collapses and for people with long-term health problems as the risk of serious illness significantly increases during such cold temperatures.”

Residents of County Durham and Darlington are also being reminded they can call 111 if they need urgent and out of hours healthcare over the festive period.

A spokeswoman for NHS County Durham and Darlington said: “We are also urging residents to ‘knock next door’ and check on elderly neighbours making sure that they have food, fuel and medication and that they are warm and comfortable.”

Symptoms include:

● Uncontrollable shivering;

● Drowsiness and slurred speech;

● Slow, shallow breathing and a weak pulse;

● Loss of sensation – not being able to tell when it is cold;

● Very cold skin even under clothes, for example, across the stomach or under the arms.

If you think someone may have hypothermia, take immediate action: ● Dial 999 for an ambulance; ● Try to warm the person gradually by warming the room, wrapping them in a blanket and giving them a warm drink; ● Don’t give them alcohol or