A Level 3 alert is triggered when severe weather is occurring and average temperatures will not rise above 2 degrees centigrade for the next few days.
The Cold Weather Plan for England, available at Type=links;Linkid=4913;Title=Public Health England;Target=_blank;, sets out a series of actions that health and social care organisations, voluntary groups, and individuals can take to help reduce cold related illnesses and deaths.
Councillor Sandra Samuels, Wolverhampton City Council's Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing said: "With the mercury in the thermometer plunging, it's important that people keep an eye on the weather forecast and plan the day around it.
"People should take extra care when they are out and about, dress warmly and wear non slip shoes to limit any falls.
"It is critical that people stay warm when they are indoors, particularly if they're aged 65 or over, or have long term health conditions.
"Homes should be kept at a minimum of 18 degrees centigrade, and wearing lots of thin layers and eating hot food will help people stay warm.
"I'd also urge people to look out for friends and neighbours who may be vulnerable to the cold and ensure they have access to warm food and drinks and are managing to heat their homes adequately."
- released: Monday 19 January 2015