As the temperatures start to dip, it’s a good idea to check whether you are properly prepared for winter. Getting ready for the cold weather means you are more likely to keep warm and well this winter.

Here’s a list of things you can do to help ward off the winter chills:

Home

• Have your heating system serviced and chimney swept
• If you have wood-burning, coal or gas heaters, make sure you have adequate ventilation
• Check your water stopcock is working properly
• Have your electric blanket serviced – this should be done at least every three years
• Make sure your smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm are working.

Health

• Be sure you have some warm shoes or boots with non-slip soles
• Keep a mixture of salt and sand handy to put on steps or paths in icy weather
• Keep simple cold, flu and sore throat remedies in the house. Your pharmacist can make suggestions and can also advise on how to manage minor illnesses
• Follow up your GP’s invitation to have a flu jab
• Order repeat prescriptions in plenty of time, particularly if bad weather is forecast
• Keep basic food items in the cupboard or freezer in case it’s too cold to go shopping
• If you smoke, think about trying to stop.

Income

• Make sure you claim all the financial support to which you are entitled. Contact the Age NI Advice and Advocacy Service for a benefits check on freephone 0808 808 7575 or visit www.ageni.org/moremoney
• If you have not been eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment before, contact the Winter Fuel Payment Helpline on 0800 731 0160 for more information
• Remember that you can also receive a Cold Weather Payment of £25 if the temperature in your area has been, or is expected to be 0 degrees or below for seven days in a row between November and March. To find out more, contact the Northern Ireland Pension Centre.

 

To find out more and to download the guide, visit our Spread the warmth page