Winter Safety: Keeping Warm and Well This January and February

January often arrives with crisp mornings and icy blue skies, but it also brings some of the coldest days of the year. While winter has its charm, staying warm is essential not just for comfort but for protecting your health and wellbeing.

Cold weather can increase the risk of illness, accidents and worsening long-term health conditions, particularly for older adults, young children, pregnant women and those living with chronic illnesses. With a little preparation and awareness, you can keep your home cosy, safe, and welcoming throughout the season.

Creating a Warm and Healthy Home Environment

Keeping your indoor temperature steady is one of the most effective ways to stay well during winter. Health experts recommend heating the rooms you use most - such as the living room and bedroom - to around 18°C (64°F) or warmer, especially if you’re older, unwell or less mobile. Closing curtains at dusk, blocking draughts under doors, keeping windows shut at night and placing rugs on hard floors all help your home retain heat.

If heating costs are a concern, focus on warming just the essential spaces. Many local councils, charities and community groups offer advice or financial support during colder months, so it’s worth checking whether help is available where you live.

Layering Up and Staying Warm Day-to-Day

Warm clothing is just as important as a heated home. Layering thin, breathable fabrics traps heat more effectively than relying on a single bulky layer. Hats, scarves, thermal socks and blankets can make a big difference, while hot water bottles or microwaveable heat packs provide affordable, comforting warmth. Please make sure that safety guidelines are followed during preparation and use to prevent burns.

Eating at least one hot meal a day and drinking warm drinks regularly helps maintain your body temperature. Staying hydrated and well-nourished is particularly important during winter when your body works harder to stay warm.

Using Heating and Appliances Safely

Winter warmth should never come at the expense of safety. If you use portable heaters, make sure they’re placed well away from curtains, furniture and anything that could catch fire. Always switch them off before leaving the room or going to bed.

For those who use log burners, open fires or gas appliances, regular maintenance is essential. Keep chimneys clean, ensure fireguards are in place and have boilers or gas appliances serviced by a qualified professional. A carbon monoxide alarm is vital in any home that uses gas, oil, or solid fuel as carbon monoxide is invisible and odourless, but extremely dangerous.

Avoiding Winter Slips and Falls

Icy weather and wet pavements can easily lead to slips outdoors and damp shoes can make indoor floors dangerously slippery. Keeping entryways dry, well-lit and clutter-free reduces the risk of accidents. When indoors, opt for slippers or shoes with good grip, particularly if you have mobility issues or live in a home with smooth flooring.

It’s also helpful to stay gently active. Moving around regularly, even simple stretching or light indoor activity, helps improve circulation and keeps you warmer.

Preparing for Cold Snaps and Unexpected Weather

Winter can be unpredictable, so having a small supply of essentials helps reduce stress. Stock up on long-life foods, basic ingredients and any regular medications so you’re prepared if travel becomes difficult. Keeping a torch, warm layers and charged devices within easy reach is also wise in case of brief power cuts.

Staying connected with others is just as important. Winter can feel isolating, especially with shorter daylight hours, so checking in with family, friends, or neighbours - particularly those who live alone - helps support wellbeing and community spirit.

Getting Help When You’re Unwell

If you begin to feel unwell during the colder months and aren’t sure what to do, NHS 111 Online is a reliable first step. The service is available 24 hours a day, offering clear guidance based on your symptoms. It can help you decide whether you can look after yourself at home, need to speak to a healthcare professional or should seek urgent care. The online service is designed to be quick and easy to use, and it’s especially helpful when you're unsure whether something is serious or simply needs rest and self-care.

For ongoing symptoms, minor illnesses or non-urgent concerns, your GP practice remains the most appropriate place to turn. GPs and practice nurses can provide personalised medical advice, medication reviews, long-term condition management and support for issues that don’t require same-day urgent attention. Most practices also offer telephone or online consultations, making it easier to get help without leaving home in bad weather.

Always call 999 in a medical emergency, such as chest pain, difficulty breathing or symptoms of a stroke.

A Warm, Safe Winter

Winter may be challenging at times, but with the right preparation, a little planning and attention to safety, your home can remain a warm and welcoming haven through the coldest months. Taking small, practical steps now can help protect your health, support your wellbeing and make winter more comfortable for you and those around you.

For more detailed winter wellbeing advice, visit Age UK’s winter guide at How to Keep Warm in Winter | Age UK, the Red Cross How to keep warm this winter: cost-effective tips or the GOV.UK cold weather safety guidance Keeping warm and well: staying safe in cold weather - GOV.UK