Age UK offers advice for cold days ahead

  • Central
The elderly are exceptionally vulnerable during cold periods Credit: ITV Central

Winter is a time of year that many people enjoy, with Christmas and New Year's Eve offering a month long time of rejoice. But, for many people, winter is a time spent cold and trapped indoors.

To ensure everybody remains safe this winter, Age UK is offering advice on staying warm and looking after elderly or vulnerable relatives.

  • Dress in plenty of layer and make sure that you have some warm shoes or boots with non-slip soles.

  • Keep a mixture of salt and sand indoors to put on steps or paths in icy weather.

  • Use a hot-water bottle or an electric blanket (serviced every three years) to warm the bed – never use the two together as this can be very dangerous.

  • The recommended temperature for your main living room is around 21 degrees Celsius.

  • Eat healthily and stay as active as possible and keep basic food items in the cupboard or freezer in case it is too cold to go shopping.

  • Check with your energy supplier for further advice to help you prepare for winter.

Age UK has launching its 'Spread the Warmth' campaign. The charity is hoping that money donated to the cause will help look after people in need of support this winter.