Stay Well This Winter - Look out for each other during the cold snap this weekend!

Public health message and tips on staying warm during the February cold snap

Get moving when it snows
• If you live on or near a hill, now is the time to buy your own supply of salt from local garden centres or builders' merchants
• Where council salt bins are provided the salt is only intended to be used on the nearby public roads and footpaths
• Don’t forget to buy a snow shovel and to use it before any snowfall compacts
• There's no reason for you not to clear snow and ice from the pavement outside your home or from public spaces. Doing so will help you and your neighbours.

Keep your home warm, efficiently and safely: 
• Heating your home to at least 18°C in winter poses minimal risk to your health when you are wearing suitable clothing (see page 40 for full advice)
• get your heating system and cooking appliances checked and keep your home well ventilated 
• Use your electric blanket as instructed and get it tested every three years. Never use a hot water bottle with an electric blanket 
• do not use a gas cooker or oven to heat your home; it is inefficient and there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and this can kill 
• make sure you have a supply of heating oil or LPG or sold fuel if you are not on mains gas or electricity – to make sure you do not run out in winter 

Keep in the warmth by: 
• fitting draught proofing to seal any gaps around windows and doors 
• Making sure you have loft insulation. And if you have cavity walls, make sure they are insulated too 
• insulate your hot water cylinder and pipes 
• draw your curtains at dusk to help keep heat generated inside your rooms 
• make sure your radiators are not obstructed by furniture or curtains 

Look after yourself: 
• food is a vital source of energy and helps to keep your body warm so have plenty of hot food and drinks 
• Aim to include five daily portions of fruit and vegetables. Tinned and frozen vegetables count toward your five a day 
• stock up on tinned and frozen foods so you don’t have to go out too much when it’s cold or icy 
• exercise is good for you all year round and it can keep you warm in winter 
• If possible, try to move around at least once an hour. But remember to speak to your GP before starting any exercise plans 
• wear lots of thin layers – clothes made from cotton, wool or fleecy fibres are particularly good and maintain body heat 
• wear good-fitting slippers with a good grip indoors and shoes with a good grip outside to prevent trips, slips and falls 
• make sure you have spare medication in case you are unable to go out 
• Check if you are eligible for inclusion on the priority services register operated by your water and power supplier

Look after others
• Check on older neighbours or relatives, especially those living alone or who have serious illnesses to make sure they are safe, warm and well