Keep warm: Be prepared
Do you hibernate like me when the weather is bad. I hate the cold and I’m always looking for ways to keep warm. Being cold can really takes its toll eventually so its best to protect ourselves the best we can from the dip in temperatures. Being a support worker and looking after the elderly in the community I am always looking for the best ways to help keep them warm. Here are a few tips on how to stay warm during the cold spell.
Ten top tips on keeping warm if going out.
- Have something hot to eat and drink before setting out on your journey and also drink plenty whilst out to keep your insides warm.
- Layer up. There is nothing worse than not dressing appropriately for the weather.
- Wear wool as wool retains the heat.
- Carry a hot water bottle with you if you can. Pocket hand warmers are also good.
- Wear a hat, gloves and a scarf to help protect you from the cold.
- Avoid getting wet the best you can. Wear waterproof clothing. There is nothing worse than having to wear wet clothes all day.
- Keep moving and avoid standing around too long. Try and use good grip shoes/boots for safety!
- If you can, always try and carry a change of footwear and socks to change in to.
- Check travel arrangements before leaving. Check transport times etc so you’re not left hanging around in the cold. Always keep in touch with a friend or relative in extreme conditions and/or travelling a distance. It then saves them from unnecessary worry.
- In extreme weather conditions carry any urgent/needed medication with you in case of emergency/road closures etc. it’s always best to be prepared. Always carry any needed chargers to keep gadgets charged so you can keep in contact with friends and family. If travelling via car, blankets and a flask of soup always come in handy in an emergency. Also write down any important numbers and keep them safe, just in case your mobile goes flat and you are unable to charge it.
Ten tips on keeping warm when indoors
- Put the heating on. Homes should be at the temperature of at least 18°C. Check if you are eligible for help with heating costs (link below), no one should be scared to have their heating on, especially on cold winter days.
- Have extra blankets to hand and hot water bottles.
- Block any drafts around doors and windows.
- Keep windows and vents closed.
- Check radiators are working properly. You may have one or two that may need bleeding. Move away any furniture obstructing the heat from the radiator.
- Layer up, several thin layers work better. Wool and/or fleece preferably.
- Hot regular drinks to keep your insides warm.
- Keep active and this will help you to keep warm. Batch cook some meals, bake a cake or even some biscuits, that way your near the oven for extra warmth too.
- Have a hot soak in the bath.
- Eat well, this will help keep your body warm. Also helps to fight off any winter germs – homemade soups are a good choice.
Be prepared:
- Have a good stock of flu medications at home.
- Check your home is insulated properly before the winter months. This will also help keep the fuel bills down.
- Speak with your GP about a flu jab.
- Check windows and doors for drafts before winter.
- Check if your entitled to a cold weather payment, it doesn’t hurt to check and every penny helps.
- Keep an eye on the weather and stock up on your shopping, saves going out if no need in the bad weather.
- Check on your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector.
- Prepare/protect your pipes for the winter months.
- Be prepared for power cuts caused by storms. Candles, batteries etc. Have them in a place ready to grab that all household members know.
- Give your car if you have one a winter check.
