With temperatures set to drop over the coming days and the arrival of snow in some places, the local NHS is reminding people that cold weather can make some health problems worse and even lead to serious complications for people with a long-term health condition.
Follow these tips to keep you and your family warm and well at home:
- if you’re not very mobile, are 65 or over, or have a health condition, such as heart or lung disease, heat your home to at least 18C
- keep your bedroom at 18C all night if you can – and keep bedroom window closed
- if you’re under 65, healthy and active, you can safely have your home cooler than 18C, as long as you’re comfortable
- use a hot water bottle or electric blanket to keep warm in bed – but do not use both at the same time
- have at least 1 hot meal a day – eating regularly helps keep you warm
- have hot drinks regularly
- to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), babies should sleep in rooms heated to between 16C and 20C
- draw curtains at dusk and keep doors closed to block out draughts
- get your heating system checked regularly by a qualified professional.
As well as looking after yourself it is important to look in on vulnerable neighbours and relatives.
Check on older neighbours and relatives, and those with heart or breathing (respiratory) problems, to make sure they are safe and well and warm enough, especially at night. Encourage them to have stocks of food and medicines so they do not need to go out during very cold weather and increase their risk of becoming ill.
If you’re worried about a relative or elderly neighbour, contact your local council or call the Age UK helpline on 0800 678 1602 (8am to 7pm every day).
If you’re concerned the person may have hypothermia, contact NHS 111.
Be prepared for cold weather by keeping an eye on the forecast – visit www.metoffice.gov.uk for the latest updates.
Visit www.staywelldorset.nhs.uk for more information on local health and care.
