Keep Warm, Keep Well, Keep Safe - Caremark ( Slough & South Bucks ) • Caremark

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Why is cold weather a problem?
When temperatures drop below 8c, some people are at increased of the following;
– Heart Attack
– Stroke
– Flu
– Pneumonia
– Falls and Injuries
– Hypothermia
Cold weather also can affect people with mental health conditions, such as depression and dementia.

Who is most at risk?
Very cold weather can effect almost anyone, but you are most vulnerable if;
– You are 65 or over
– You’re on a lower income ( Can’t manage heating bills )
– You have a long-term health condition, such as heart, lung or kidney disease
– You are disabled
– You are pregnant
– You have young children ( newborn to school age )
– You have a mental health condition

How to keep your home warm
– 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 (65F)
– Keep your bedroom at 18C all night if you can – also keep the bedroom window closed
– During the day you may prefer your living room to be slightly warmer than 18C
– To reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), babies should sleep in rooms heated to between 16C and 20C
– If you’re under 65, Healthy and Active, you can safely have your home cooler than 18C, if you’re comfortable
– Draw curtains at dusk and keep doors closed to block out draughts
– Get your heating system checked regularly by a qualified professional

Look in on vulnerable neighbours and relatives
Check up on older neighbours and relatives, and those with heart or respiratory (breathing) problems, to make sure the following;
– They are safe and well
– They are warm enough, especially at night
– Have enough stock on food and drinks so they don’t need to go out during very cold weather

If you are worried about a relative or elderly neighbour, contact your local council or call the Age UK helpline on 0800 678 1174 ( 8am-7pm every day )
If you’re concerned that the person may be suffering from hypothermia, contact NHS on 111

Keep Warm, Keep Well, Keep Safe – Caremark ( Slough & South Bucks )