Summer is over and winter is here. That means shorter days and colder weather. This can be a difficult time for the ageing population, especially those with health conditions. This year has also brought the challenge of an increased cost of living, forcing many households to choose between heating and eating. With all this in mind, we are thinking ahead and looking at some winter safety tips to get you through the colder months.
Keep Your Home Warm
This is perhaps one of the most important – and most obvious – things to do in the winter. A cold home is not just uncomfortable, but it can be detrimental to your health. This is especially true if you have a health condition, such as problems with your lungs.
Winter safety means taking measures to keep heat in your home. This means keeping windows closed and, in some cases, closing doors throughout the home. If your house is prone to draughts, it may be worth investing in draught excluders – just don’t forget you have them, as they could become trip hazards.
Another method of keeping your home warm is to close your curtains. If you can, choose to hang your thickest curtains in the rooms you spend most of your time, such as the living room and bedroom.
Making sure your heating system is working properly is also key to your winter safety. Try and find time to call your provider so that they can check everything is working properly. If you have an oil-based heating system, make sure you have topped it up.
If you don’t have a reliable heating system – or cannot afford to have it on – then make sure to wrap yourself up well. Double up on socks, stick on an extra jumper, and cover your body with blankets. Ensure you are eating hot meals – at least one a day – and try to drink hot drinks regularly.
Help With Heating
Heating bills can get expensive over the winter period. Many of us might worry that we won’t be able to afford to keep our homes warm. Fortunately, there are government grants in place to help us through this trying time.
If you are receiving your state pension – or certain other benefits – and were born before 25th September 1942, you may be able to receive a Winter Fuel Payment of between £250 and £600. This can be used to cover your heating bills. You can find more information on the government website.
Alternatively, you may become viable for a cold weather payment if the area you live in is predicted to suffer from prolonged low temperatures. For every 7-day period of cold weather (zero degrees Celsius or lower) you will receive £25 of support towards your heating bills.
Further support with your winter safety can be provided by the warm home discount scheme.
Vaccines
It seems that this year the word “vaccine” hasn’t gone away. It is very important, though, that you are vaccinated against both coronavirus and the flu. If you have been vaccinated against Covid, make sure to book yourself in for a booster shot. Winter is also flu season, so make sure you get your flu jab too.
Winter safety means staying well. Your vaccines will help stave of sickness, but make sure you are doing all you can to stay healthy. Eat well and keep warm. If it helps you feel safer, you can also continue wearing a face mask when you go out. The great thing about face masks in winter is that they will also keep your face a little bit warmer!
Out and About
Of course, one of the best forms of winter safety is staying inside where it’s warm. This, though, isn’t always possible. You might have appointments to attend, or you want to get out to do some Christmas shopping. Social activities are also important. Book clubs and fitness groups can help to combat loneliness.
If you are going out, wrap up warm. Invest in some thick gloves, scarves, and hats to keep Jack Frost away, and opt to wear thicker footwear where possible. Always be mindful of the weather and consult forecasts before making plans. Icy conditions are no good for winter safety, after all.
This remains true whether you are driving or walking.
You may also want to think about taking a torch with you. With the days getting shorter, nightfall can come before you know it. A bright light on the paths will not only light your way and help you locate patches of ice, but it will also help other people to see you.
Carelink Alarms
For extra peace of mind for you and your family, consider a Carelink alarm. Sometimes, winter safety means being able to call for help if you have a fall or feel unwell. Help is always a button press away.
You can find out more about our alarm service by reading our in-depth guide. More advice on looking out for your wellbeing, and fun topics such as Christmas activities, can be found in our news section.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our friendly customer service team. Use our contact page or call on 0800 0076 247; we will always do our best to help you.
Editor’s Note: This article was updated on 7th November 2022 to reflect current information.
