Keeping warm over the winter months can help prevent illnesses such as colds, flu, and other health conditions that may compromise your immunity. We’ve already shared some of our top tips for keeping your home warm this winter but, as the weather gets colder, make sure to keep yourself safe this Winter, too.
Stay Warm
- If you have low mobility, are 65 or over, or have a health condition (such as heart or lung disease), you should heat your home to at least 18°C. It’s a good idea to keep your bedroom at 18°C all night, if possible. During the day, you may prefer your living room slightly warmer than 18°C. If you are under 65, and are generally healthy
and active, you can safely have your home cooler than 18°C.
- You can use a hot water bottle, cosy blankets, or an electric blanket to keep warm in bed. (Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for electric blankets.) Please do not use both hot water bottles and electric blankets at the same time!
- Remember to eat regularly and have hot drinks when possible. All this helps keep you warm. (Plus, it’s a great excuse for a hot chocolate with whipped cream on top…)
- Stay active as much as possible, and as safely as possible. Even moderate exercise can bring health benefits, and keep you warm. Try to walk around your home as much as possible during the day and try not to stay seated for over an hour. If you’re intent on starting an exercise plan this Winter, speak to your GP beforehand to get personal advice.
Winter Clothing
- Layer up! Wear lots of thin layers – clothes made from cotton, wool, or fleecy fibres are particularly good and help to maintain body heat.
- Wear shoes with a good grip to prevent slips and falls when walking outside. If you have heart or respiratory problems, try to stay inside during cold periods where possible.
Care for your Community
- Look out for each other. Check on older neighbours or relatives to make sure they’re safe and well. Make sure they’re warm enough, especially at night, and have stocks of food and medicines so they don’t need to go out during very cold weather. If you’re worried about a relative or elderly neighbour, contact your local council or call the Age UK helpline on 0800 678 1174 (8am-7pm every day). If they’re a CCHA tenant and you’d like us to drop by to make sure they’re OK, please contact us.
More guidance and advice about staying safe this Winter can be found on the NHS Direct website