Staying Warm & Safe in Winter
Why warmth matters
Cold weather forces your body to work harder to stay warm. Blood vessels constrict, blood thickens, and blood pressure can rise — all of which increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. Older adults, those with chronic health conditions, or anyone with reduced mobility are especially vulnerable.
Who’s most at risk:
- Older people (often 65+)
- People with heart, lung, kidney, or circulatory conditions
- Those with mobility or sensory impairments
- People taking medications that affect temperature regulation (e.g. diuretics)
- Anyone living alone or socially isolated
Top Tips to Keep Warm & Healthy:
Layer up smartly
- Wear multiple thin layers (e.g. base layer, insulating layer, outer shell) rather than one heavy garment.
- Keep feet, hands, neck, and head well covered, heat is often lost through extremities.
- Use thermal socks, gloves, and scarves where needed.
Heat your home safely
- Aim to keep your main living areas at least 18 °C (65 °F), and your bedroom at 16–18 °C (60–65 °F).
- Use timers or thermostats to avoid extremes.
- Don’t block heaters or radiators with furniture or curtains.
- If using electric heaters or radiators, ensure they are in good condition, and always follow manufacturer instructions.
Use heat items correctly
- Hot water bottles: Replace every 2 years. Never fill with boiling water. Look for date stamps or tell‑tale signs of wear.
- Wheat bags / heat pads: Follow heating instructions closely. Discard if damaged, burnt, or leaking.
Boost your fuel intake with warm food & drinks
- Eat regular, balanced meals, include soups and hot drinks (tea, broth) to help maintain body warmth.
- Avoid excessive alcohol, it may give a temporary “warm” feeling but impairs your body’s ability to regulate temperature.
Move safely
- Gentle indoor movement helps boost circulation (e.g. leg raises, arm stretches).
- Avoid sudden exertion — especially when cold — which can strain the heart.
Check on others & yourself
- If you care for someone, make sure they are dressed appropriately, and their heating is working.
- Watch for signs of hypothermia: shivering, confusion, drowsiness, slow breathing.
- Visit them regularly, especially in cold spells or if they live alone.
Plan ahead for emergencies
- Keep a simple “winter kit” — blanket, torch, bottled water, snacks, extra layers.
- Know who to call if heating fails (reliable tradesperson, supplier helpline).
- Be aware of local warm‑spaces (libraries, community centres) in case your home becomes uncomfortably cold.
When to Seek Medical Help
Get medical advice or call emergency services if someone shows:
- Intense shivering (or absence of shivering)
- Confusion, slurred speech, drowsiness
- Slow or irregular breathing
- Cold, pale or blue extremities