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More people get ill in winter and there is a direct link
between cold weather and the higher death rate, especially amongst
older people and other at-risk groups. Winter needn't be dangerous
if you take the right steps and we all look out for the signs that
others may need help.
Looking out for trouble
If someone has had an accident in their home, fallen and injured
themselves or been taken ill, they may not be able to attract
attention of neighbours, passers-by or people who call at the door.
Always be on the look-out for signs that something might be wrong,
especially when the weather is cold.
There are many signs to look out for:
- milk not taken in late in the day;
- newspapers stuck in the letterbox;
- curtains drawn during the day;
- lights burning during the day;
- home in darkness when there should be someone at home;
- dog barking all day or the cat scratching to be let
in
Prevention
Clearly, it is important to prevent people from becoming cold in
the first place. Family, friends and neighbours in the community
can look out for those who might be at risk from the cold.
Prevention is always easier than cure!
Hypothermia
Hypothermia is a lowered deep-core body temperature of 35C/95F
or below. It is the lowered temperature of the organs inside the
body which is important - an ordinary thermometer cannot measure
this. You may not actually feel cold but if you sit in a cold room
and do little or nothing to keep warm then you may run the risk of
becoming hypothermic or becoming ill with bronchitis or pneumonia.
Both are cold-related illnesses.
Watch out for the danger signs
- drowsiness;
- very cold skin on parts of the body normally covered, for
example the stomach or armpits;
- slurred speech;
- absence of complaint about feeling cold, even in a bitterly
cold room.
If you are in doubt:
- move the person into warmer surroundings if possible
- wrap the person in a light layer of blankets or a duvet to
avoid further loss of body heat, give them warm, nourishing
drinks
- call the doctor or nurse
- do not subject the person to any sudden extreme change of
temperature - so do not put them next to a fire or give them hot
water bottles or heavy layers of clothes or blankets
- do not give them alcohol, as it will stimulate further heat
loss through the skin.
How can you help yourself keep warm?
Safety is important in all aspects of keeping yourself warm.
Care should be taken when using electric blankets or filling hot
water bottles. Never use a hot water bottle and an electric blanket
together, as this is extremely dangerous and could give you an
electric shock.
You may be entitled to some additional help, especially during
periods of very cold weather.
Energy Advice Centres
These centres give free independent advice on energy saving
measures at home.
Freephone 0800 512 012 |