News  »  Some tips on keeping warm and well during the cold weather

A Level 3 cold weather warning has been issued, with the Met Office expecting that temperatures will fall below freezing. During this time, the elderly and those who are vulnerable are reminded of some simple life-saving tips about how to stay warm and well in colder weather. Some of them may seem obvious, but they could help you to stay healthy during the colder winter months.

• Heat your home well. By setting your heating to the right temperature, a minimum of 18ºC (65ºF) day and night, you can keep your home warm and your bills as low as possible.
• Get financial support. There are grants, benefits and sources of advice available to make your home more energy efficient, improve your heating or help with bills. It’s worthwhile claiming all the benefits you are entitled to. To find out about grants, services and organisations that call help you, your family or neighbour, please call 0345 650 0280.
• Eat well and have plenty of fluids. Food is a vital source of energy which helps to keep your body warm. Try to make sure you and your family have hot meals and drinks regularly throughout the day.
• Get a flu jab. People are more likely to catch flu in cold weather. It’s not too late to get a free flu vaccination if you are aged over 65, pregnant, have an on-going illness such as a heart or lung condition, or are a carer. Flu jabs are available from your GP or some local pharmacists (please click here to see a list). All children aged two, three and four years are also entitled to a flu immunisation delivered by nasal spray at their GP practice.
• Look after yourself. Keeping active is important for your health. If you do go out in cold weather it is important that you wear extra clothes to make sure that you are wrapped up warmly. During very cold and icy weather conditions, it is safer for older people, very young children and anyone with health problems to avoid going out where possible.
• Look after your family and neighbours. If you have an older or vulnerable relative or neighbour, look out for them during winter to ensure that they are warm and safe and avoid the need for additional medical care.

More advice about staying healthy during cold weather is available on the winter health pages of the NHS Choices website.