Keep your loved ones warm this winter

Although we are used to relatively mild winters with low snowfall, temperatures still fall down below the 0 mark, putting thousands of vulnerable people at risk. In fact, The Office for National Statistics released figures pointing out that there were as many as 14, 300 excess winter deaths in England and Wales in 2015/16.

Elderly people in specific are at most risk, due to contributing factors, such as trying to save on bills and turning the heating off, or lack of appropriate clothing. Due to certain medical conditions, elderly people might be less aware of changes in the temperature, or feel colder than others, and unintentionally overheat their living space.

In the winter, and in general, to keep your loved ones warm but not uncomfortable, the house temperature should be between 18°C, and up to 21°C.

Here are a few ways to make sure everyone is cosy and toasty:

1. If your loved ones are experiencing issues with mobility, invest in a remote control heating system, and wireless thermostat.
2. Insulate pipes, lofts and cover gaps to make sure the precious heat stays inside.
3. Service the boiler, and other gas and heating appliances to ensure they're safe to use and performing to their best capacity.
4. Give the gift of care. With our Care Club home maintenance plans an engineer will be on the way, as soon as you need them.
5. Invest in thick curtains, and make sure they're drawn in, and windows are closed before going o bed.
6. What a better way to keep your loved ones warm but gifting warm jumpers, trousers, hats and mittens. And if they're handmade - even better.
7. Make use of hot bottles and electrical blankets to bring extra warmth to the bedroom.

And most importantly - don't forget to regularly check upon you elderly friends, neighbours and relatives - just because everyone needs human contact to warm up the heart.