Below are some useful ways you can keep warm and information to pass onto to others.
Heat/Warm Yourself First
Wear several thin layers. Ensure that the room you’re using most is at least 18 degrees. Touch radiators to make sure they are working. Close doors to keep heat in the room. Close curtains. Seal gaps at home where there are drafts - with a rolled up towel or similar.
Going Outside?
Wear shoes with good grip when you go outside to avoid slips and falls on slippery or icy surfaces. Keep extremities warm by wearing gloves, socks, a hat and scarf when out. Visit a charity shop if you cannot find last year's winter clothing. Wear a coat.
Eat Well and Have Hot Drinks
It is important to eat at least one warm meal a day and have regular warm drinks. Pop the kettle on when doing visiting vulnerable people and make a hot drink part of your visit.
Driving?
Your car may not warm up fully on short trips so bring a flask with you to have sips of hot fluid. Tune the radio for travel reports, keep your phone charged, have plenty of petrol to avoid being stranded and ... slooooooow down. Get there safely
Stay Active
Change position and move about. This will keep your internal body temperature up
Fire Safety
Never use naked flames, ovens or barbecues to light or heat your home as they create a risk of fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Open fires should have a fire guard. Candles or burners should never be left unattended especially if there are children in the home.
Warm Havens and Hubs
In recognition of rising energy costs, local councils have created warm havens or hubs for people who will not be able to afford to keep their heating on during the day. If you need somewhere warm to go or are concerned for a vulnerable patient, service user, family member or friend, see below is a list of warm havens you can signpost people to:
Newham
Newham Warm Havens are safe, warm, non-judgemental spaces where residents can go, free of charge, for any reason.
Tower Hamlets
Warm Hubs have been set up at the Idea Stores, Libraries and Community Centres
City of London & Hackney
The Warm Welcome Space campaign has a large number of warm spaces which offer a warm welcome, a smile, and a hot drink
Luton & Bedfordshire
Central Bedfordshire, Luton & Bedford Councils are providing warm spaces in leisure centres, libraries and other venues.
For further tips on how to cope in cold weather see the NHS page 'How to Stay Well in Winter' or visit the Age UK website for more information on staying warm this winter.