Planning to keep warm
Planning to keep warm 1. Keeping yourself warm
• Wearing several thinner layers of clothing is more effective than wearing just one thicker layer, as warm air is trapped between each layer. Always go for fabrics such as wool or fleecy fibres rather than cotton, which is not as good at insulating. Thermal underwear, thick tights or woolly socks are also great base layers to keep you snug and warm. • A hot water bottle retains heat and will keep your hands and body warm for longer. You can also use wheat bags. Make sure you follow the safety instructions; don’t use boiling water, make sure the top is not leaking and don’t place directly on your skin. • Electric blankets are an excellent method of warming up your bed before you get in. Make sure you check whether the electric blanket can be left on all night as many should only be used for warming the bed. Never use an electric blanket and hot water bottle together as this is very dangerous. • Continence difficulties can have a huge impact on moderating your body temperature during the cold weather so make sure you see your GP if this affects you. 2. Keeping your home warm • Closing your curtains at dusk will help keep the heat in, particularly if you are able to fit thermal linings into your curtains. • Keep your windows closed, especially at night when the weather is at its coldest. Breathing in cold air increases the risk of developing chest infections. Keep your doors closed too as this will warm the rooms quicker and help maintain the right temperature, making it more cost efficient. • Draught excluders on your doors and windows as well as insulation in walls and your loft are excellent ways to keep your home warmer and your energy bills lower. There may be financial assistance available to help you do this. • Remember, optimum temperature for your main living room is 21°C (70°F) and 18°C (64°F) for your bedroom.
• People aged over 65 years are entitled to a Winter Fuel Payment to assist with the increased cost of utilities in the colder weather. If you do not receive this or need more information, please visit www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment or call 0800 731 0160 . Simple Energy Advice is a government endorsed service offering independent and impartial advice on making your home warmer, more environmentally friendly and cutting energy bills. Simple Energy Advice can be contacted on 0800 444 202 or at www.simpleenergyadvice.org.uk/
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