Keeping warm, preventing illness, and staying safe
In a typical winter, cold drops in temperature can happen suddenly and unexpectedly. So it is best to be prepared for every eventuality. Here is some advice and information about how to keep warm, safe, and secure in your home and local area.
You can do some things to help yourself stay well in winter.
One of the main things you can do is keep yourself warm. Keeping warm over the winter can help prevent illnesses, from colds to flu and even more serious problems.
Heating your home to a comfortable temperature is the ideal solution to keeping yourself safe, particularly if you have any health conditions. However, we know not everyone can afford to keep their homes heated this winter. If you need help heating your home, please visit our money advice page and Financial support and the cost of living page for more information on what to do.
Additionally, if you need to find somewhere warm in your local area, please visit the Warm Welcome Campaign website to see all the warm places near you.
Over this winter period, everyone could use extra help. Checking in with vulnerable family, friends, and neighbours who could use your support is vital in keeping everyone safe this winter.
If any friends, family, or neighbours need NHS support, please call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk for advice and help.
If you are worried about an elderly neighbour or relative, please call the Age UK helpline on 0800 678 1602 between 8 am and 7 pm daily.
Plan ahead for winter storms and cold temperatures to stay safe and healthy. Prepare your home, vehicles, and outdoor activity. Check on older adults and prepare for power outages.
Prepare your home
Please see our stay safe and warm this winter page for help and advice on how to prepare your home.
Prepare your vehicle
Preparing your vehicle is enormously important to keep safe this winter. Here are some simple tips to help you be ready for any eventuality over the colder months.
- Check your tire tread before any travel.
- Make sure your car has been serviced and maintain its antifreeze level.
- When trying to defrost your car, do not pour boiling water on the windshield, as it could cause damage to your vehicle.
- If the roads have iced over, please avoid all travel if possible. If you must travel, plan and give yourself plenty of time to reach your destination.
For more information on how to prepare your car for winter please visit the Met Office vehicle safety page
