More people get ill in winter and the number of deaths rises. There is a direct link between cold weather and the higher death rate, especialy amongst older people and others in at-risk groups. Remember - winter needn't be dangerous if you take the right steps.

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 cat sratching 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 acold room and do little or nothing to keep warm then you may run the risk of becoming hypothermic or beoming ill with bronchitis or pneumonia. Both are cold related illnesses.

Danger signs

• drowsiness
• very cold skin on parts of the body normally covered, for example the stomach or armpits
• slurred speech
• absene 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 blanket
• do not give them alcohol as it will stimulate further heat loss through the skin

How can you help yourself to keep warm?

Safety is important in all aspects of keeping yourself warm. Care should be taken when using eletric 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 financial help, especially during periods of very cold weather. Click here for information about Winter Fuel Payments.