Beat the cold
As
forecasters warn of more snowfalls and freezing cold weather this
week, there are some simple things you can do to keep warm and
reduce your energy bills.
The Department of Health recommends you take
the following practical steps during cold weather:
- have regular hot drinks and at least one hot
meal a day – eating regularly helps to keep energy levels up during
winter
- wear several light layers of warm
clothes
- keep as active as possible
- remember to wrap up warm if you need to go
outside on cold days
Keeping your home safe and
warm
The NHS advises keeping your home at the
recommended temperature of 18oC to 21oC.
If you can’t heat all your rooms make sure you
keep your living room warm throughout the day and heat your bedroom
before going to bed.
The government advises in very cold weather,
rather than turn the thermostat up, set the heating to come on
earlier so you won’t be cold while you wait for your home to heat
up.
Set the timer on your heating to come on
before you get up and switch off when you go to bed.
Try to keep a temperature of above 18°C (65°F)
in your bedroom overnight.
An electric blanket or a hot water bottle will
help you keep warm but never use them together as
you could electrocute yourself.
If you use an electric blanket make sure it is
safe to use by getting it tested every three years. The Fire
Brigade, Trading Standards and Age Concern can test your electric
blanket for safety.
Age Concern advises when sitting down indoors‚
keep a shawl or blanket handy in case you feel
cold.Try and keep your feet up as the air is
cooler at ground level.
Help with your bills
Some pensioners, people on income support,
those with disabilities may be entitled to a cold weather payment.
For more information, visit Directgov,
the government’s website.
Check up on your
neighbour
Neighbours are often the best people to know
if someone in their block or street needs a helping hand. If
you have family, friends or neighbours who may be vulnerable to
cold weather, please check to see that they are ok.
For more help and advice, get in touch with
your housing office or caretaker.