With Valentine’s Day fast approaching people are being encouraged to look after their heart health this half term by getting their blood pressure checked and taking simple steps to stay well.

High blood pressure, if left untreated, can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, heart failure, kidney disease, vision loss, and even dementia.

The NHS, Devon County Council and Libraries Unlimited have joined together to help people keep track of their health at home. People can now borrow a blood pressure monitor for free from one of 50 libraries across Devon, making it easy to check their readings and get support. Visit the NHS Devon website here for more information.

Free blood pressure checks are also available at many community pharmacies across Devon. To find your nearest pharmacy visit the NHS website here.

Taking small steps to support your health today can help you feel better now and may lower your chances of developing certain health conditions in the future. It can also support your wellbeing as you age, helping you stay active and independent for longer.

As the February half term sees spring on the horizon and for many brings a welcome break to enjoy.

Penny Smith, Chief Nursing Officer for NHS Devon said: “When you’re injured or feeling unwell, knowing who to contact can make all the difference. We’re asking residents and visitors to follow our simple guidance during February half term, so they can be seen in the right place, at the right time – often with shorter waits.”

Here is some useful advice on where to get the help you need if you or a loved one is unwell or injured during this time.

For anyone in need of medical help:

1. Self-care kit: top of the list is to make sure you always have a well-stocked first aid kit in your medicine cabinet or suitcase. Read the NHS Devon advice on self-care for more tips.
   
   
2. Pharmacy: from supermarkets to high streets and retail parks, pharmacists are on hand with advice and treatment for a wide range of conditions – including children’s earache, urinary tract infections (UTIs), emergency contraception and more. Did you know they can also provide an emergency supply of most medicines when your GP surgery is closed? Find your nearest open pharmacy.
   
   
3. GP team: remember you can still call your own GP surgery even if you’re staying away from home. If needed, they’ll be happy to help arrange a prescription for collection at a local pharmacy close to where you’re staying.
   
   
4. Minor injury units and urgent treatment centres: provide help for conditions such as broken bones or cuts that need stitches. There’s a network of minor injury units and Urgent Treatment Centres across Devon as a great alternative to the emergency department. Find your nearest one here.
   
   
5. NHS 111: If you’re unsure what help you need or where is best, visit NHS 111 online or call 111 for advice and assistance. They’re available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
   
   
6. Mental health: You can call NHS 111 any time day or night if you are worried about your own or someone else’s mental health.
   
   
7. Urgent Dental appointments: If you develop an urgent dental issue and you don’t have a regular dentist, call NHS 111 or visit NHS 111 online who will assess your situation and if needed, make an appointment at a local dentist.
   
   
8. Life-threatening injury or illness: Call 999 or go straight to the emergency department if you are seriously ill or injured. Examples include chest pain, trouble breathing, severe bleeding and signs of stroke.

For more information about local urgent and emergency services in Devon visit the One Devon website