Blog
Keeping Warm this Winter
Monday 20th January 2020
After a surprisingly warm Christmas period, the cold has decided to set itself upon us.
Over the last week, I've definitely felt the temperature drop (BRrrRRrr) and have almost gone an absolute flyer whilst walking down the garden path!!
On my way to work this morning, I couldn't help but have a chuckle seeing the children sliding across the pavements making their way to school, whilst their parents watched in horror shouting at them to stop near a road.
When I arrived at work, I made sure to send my Nan a little text, to warn her about going out today with the icy pavements and if possible, to avoid going out (or at least until the sun had melted the pavements). I am super bossy when it comes to bad weather and often worry about my Nan (little miss independent) who I know will take a wander to the local shop to grab some 'essential' (I mean, I'm sure she could go without a bag of lettuce for one day) items to get out of the house for half an hour.
My Nan is pretty clued up when it comes to keeping warm and making sure to avoid going out in what can be dangerous weather, especially as she's getting older and a little more frail. However, if you're not sure what you can do to keep yourself or your loved ones warm, here are a few tips:
- 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 the bedroom window closed
- 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
- draw curtains at dusk and keep doors closed to block out draughts
- get your heating system checked regularly by a qualified professional
Luckily for my Nan, she has a super bossy Granddaughter! Sadly, not everyone is as lucky as her, so, if you have an elderly relative or neighbour, why not check on them? See if they're hot water and heating is OK and they're keeping not only warm, but hydrated.
Your small act of kindness can literally save a life. Can you spare 5 minutes?
Love, Claire x