Simple ways to stay safe and warm
As the days get shorter and temperatures begin to drop, now is a good time to start thinking about preparing your home for winter.
Whether you’re caring for an older relative, someone with a disability or a loved one with a long-term health condition, keeping your home safe, warm and comfortable can make a real difference to everyone’s wellbeing.
The good news is that a few simple steps can help you prepare for the colder weather.
Keep your home warm and comfortable
A warm home is important for everyone’s health, particularly for older people and those living with certain health conditions.
The NHS recommends heating rooms you regularly use to at least 18°C during colder weather, if you can. Some people may need a warmer environment depending on their health or mobility needs.
There are small changes you can make to help keep the warmth in:
- Keep draughts out: Use draught excluders around doors and windows to prevent heat escaping.
- Close curtains at dusk: This can help retain warmth once the temperature drops.
- Keep radiators clear: Avoid placing furniture directly in front of radiators so heat can circulate.
- Layer up: Warm clothing, socks and blankets can help you stay comfortable, alongside adequate heating.
- Check your heating: Make sure your heating system is working properly before the coldest weather arrives.
Make your home safer during the darker months
Winter isn’t just about colder temperatures. Wet weather and icy conditions can also increase the risk of slips, trips and falls.
Consider these simple safety measures:
- Make sure hallways, stairs and entrances are well-lit.
- Keep walkways clear of clutter, loose rugs and trailing cables.
- Check that outdoor paths and steps are safe, especially during icy weather.
- Keep a torch somewhere easy to reach in case of a power cut.
- Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms, where fitted, and make sure they’re working correctly.
Check what help is available with energy bills
Keeping your home warm can be expensive, and rising household costs can be a particular worry for carers who may already be managing additional expenses.
You may be entitled to financial support or practical help to make your home more energy-efficient.
Depending on your circumstances, support could include:
- Warm Home Discount: Eligible households may receive a discount on their electricity bill.
- Winter Fuel Payment: Some pensioners may qualify for help with winter heating costs, depending on the current eligibility rules.
- Cold Weather Payments: Eligible people in certain areas may receive payments during periods of very cold weather.
Eligibility and availability can vary, so it’s worth checking what support you or the person you care for might be able to access.
You can find information through searching these benefits on gov.uk.
Plan ahead for winter emergencies
You never know when disruption can occur or if there will be a power cut so it’s helpful to have some of these essentials around a home.
- Any medication and repeat prescription details.
- Important phone numbers, including GP and emergency contacts.
- A charged mobile phone and portable power bank.
- A torch, spare batteries and warm blankets.
- Essential food and household supplies.
You may also be eligible to join your energy supplier’s Priority Services Register, which offers additional support to people in vulnerable circumstances, including some people with disabilities, long-term health conditions or additional communication needs.
When you’re caring for someone else, it’s easy to put your own needs at the bottom of the list.
Try to make time to look after your own health and wellbeing. Keep warm, eat regularly, stay connected with friends or family and ask for help when you need it.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember that you don’t have to manage everything alone. Reaching out for support, whether that’s practical advice, emotional support or a break from caring, can make a difference.
If you’re an unpaid carer and would like advice, information or support, get in touch with us at North Tyneside Carers’ Centre. Our team is here to help you find the support you need, whatever the season.
0191 2496480