People urged to wear swimming caps outdoors from December | UK | News
People in the UK are being urged to wear caps under helmets to protect against the cold when cycling this winter. Winter in the UK lasts from December to February and is the coldest time of the year; Snow, ice, frost, rain and freezing temperatures are common this time of year. The Met Office has warned of unstable weather conditions as winter arrives this week; Heavy rain, strong winds and cold conditions are expected in the coming days.
With winter in full swing and the weather expected to get colder, the Met Office is urging households to be “weather ready” and has shared advice on how to prepare for what the weather may bring, including how to protect yourself against freezing temperatures outside. Up to 45% of body heat is lost through the head and neck; So it’s vital to take the necessary steps to stay warm during the winter months, especially if you regularly commute by bike. To help protect against cold weather, people are asked to wear a cap under their cycling helmet when cycling in winter to help keep heat in.
In its Weather Ready advice, the Met Office said: “40-45% of body heat is lost through the head and neck, so keeping your head warm is vital during winter driving.
“If neck warmers, headbands, cycling caps, balaclavas and woolly hats aren’t enough, try adding a bonnet underneath. This additional layer can help trap heat and prevent your head from getting cold.”
The national forecaster also recommends keeping a close eye on the forecast as you prepare to hit the roads in winter and stick to well-lit main roads whenever possible; as these roads are more likely to be treated due to icy conditions.
Cyclists should also aim to wear high-visibility clothing, use bright flashing bike lights and listen carefully for oncoming traffic as it gets darker earlier at this time of year.
To further fend off the cold, Cycling UK recommends warming your shoes before cycling in winter as this will help keep your toes warm and toasty.
The cycling charity says the best way to do this is to put about 700g of ceramic cooking beans in a jug and microwave them on high heat for about four minutes.
Once heated, pour them into cotton socks, seal the tops with a food bag clip, and place them inside your cycling shoes for a few minutes before heading out.
Cycling UK commercial director Katie Legg said: “There’s nothing better for our health and to beat the winter blues than getting outside and reconnecting with nature.
“The rustle of leaves and crisp fresh air when cycling on a winter’s day is worth all the packing and preparation of your bike. If you’re unsure of how to make sure you’re ready for winter, check out Cycling UK’s website for advice and tips.”
