Health workers are calling for patients to wrap up warm and make sure they have enough medication to see them through the Christmas break.
Peter Ripley, operations director for East Midlands Ambulance Service (Emas), said people should plan ahead to make sure ambulances and hospitals only had to deal with serious cases.
"We prepare our vehicles for the worst winter can throw at us and plan for a seasonal spike in calls.
"We want people to take the same forward-planning approach in their homes and for their families," he said.
"Many people will be busy preparing for Christmas yet forget to organise a repeat prescription or make time to see their doctor and that could lead to a crisis in their health."
Motorists planning journeys are urged to make sure they are equipped with blankets, snacks and hot drinks in case of difficult weather conditions.
Dr James Gray, Emas medical director, said: "We want people to respect the cold and be prepared for the impact it may have on their health.
"The cold has an adverse effect on many long-term conditions and strenuous activities, such as shovelling snow in freezing temperatures, can increase the risk of heart attack for those who are already vulnerable.
"Keeping warm is key to keeping well. It's especially important elderly people heat their home and have hot meals.
"Slips and trips on ice and snow account for a large number of calls during winter. We would advise everyone to be extra careful and not take risks.
"People can make a real difference to elderly neighbours by checking they are well this winter and offering to help with shopping."
