Although winter weather and snow can be fun, cold conditions can be harmful to children, as they lose body heat more quickly than adults.

Here’s how you can protect your children when the temperature drops:

1. Some children can now get protected against the flu: Flu can be a very unpleasant illness for children with potentially serious complications, including bronchitis and pneumonia. The NHS offers free nasal flu vaccines to children who are aged two, three or four years from your local GP. Children will also be offered free nasal flu vaccine in years One, Two and Three at schools.

2. Layers: Babies and children need more clothing layers than adults, so make sure to put base, mid and outer layers on children before they go outside. Hats and are also very important to keep them warm.

3. Footwear: Toes can quickly get cold and wet, so invest in some winter socks and waterproof footwear.

4. Hydration: Dry winter air can dehydrate babies and children as they lose more water through their breath. Keep them hydrated by giving warm drinks and food.

5. Keep your home warm: Heating your home to at least 18ºC (65°F) in winter is particularly important. You may be eligible for financial schemes and discounts to help you pay for heating. See Keep Warm, Keep Well for details.

Councillor Tom McGee, Stockport Council’s Executive Member for Health, said: “We want to ensure that our local residents and young children are healthy and warm this winter. It’s great when I see babies all wrapped up and warm, so let’s make sure that all of our little ones are protected during the cold weather months.”

For more winter advice, please visit www.nhs.uk/staywell.

For local energy efficiency advice, visit www.stockport.gov.uk/energyefficiency