Advice on coping in cold weather
On this page you will find some of the key resources and tips that you can follow in the event of cold weather as well as some general tips that you can use to stay safe and comfortable. You will also find some local resources here.
There are many factors that may affect our health during cold weather and throughout the winter. Please read on to find information about the various things that you can do to protect yourself, and the support options available to you.
Here are four things that the NHS recommends during the winter:
- Make sure you get your flu vaccination as well as other seasonal vaccinations available to you
- Take advantage of schemes and discounts to help you pay for heating and other bills
- Contact NHS 111 online or by phone if you are worried about any symptoms (but always call 999 in an emergency)
- Look out for other people who may need a bit of extra help over the winter, including babies, children, rough sleepers, older people and people with dementia
- heat your home to at least 18°C
- fit draught proofing, loft insulation and other insultation in areas where heat may be lost (SHINE may be able to do this for you)
- get your heating system and cooking appliances checked and keep your home well ventilated
- use an electric blanket (as instructed and get it tested every three years) – never use a hot water bottle with an electric blanket
- draw your curtains at dusk to keep the heat in
- make sure your radiators are not blocked by furniture
- don't use a gas cooker or oven to heat your home; it is inefficient and there is a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and this can kill
- make sure you have a supply of heating oil or LPG or solid fuel if you are not on mains gas or electricity – to make sure you do not run out in winter
- have plenty of hot food and drinks
- aim to include five portions of fruits and vegetables each day
- stock up on tinned and frozen food so you don't have to go out when it's too cold
- exercise
- try to move at least once per hour
- wear a lot of thin layers, preferably cotton, wool or fleece - this is better than wearing one thick layer
- wear good-fitting slippers indoors and shoes with a good grip oudoors to avoid slipping
- make sure you have enough medication so you don't have to go out when it's too cold
- check if you can be added to the Priority Services Register (SHINE - 0800 953 1221 - can help with this)
A warm welcome from our libraries
Our Barbican and Community libraries provide a warm welcome to all. Come in and spend some time with us, read a book, paper, magazine, and take a look at our various exhibitions. You will find all sorts of information and computer terminals for public use as well as support with form filling and basic IT skills help. Find our libraries by visiting the Libraries page.
Warm Spaces in the City of London
'Warm Spaces' provide a place for everyone to come for warmth, activities and community in a friendly, non-judgemental way that welcomes all. During the colder months you can find a warm space near you.
If you are concerned about road safety and gritting you can find information on our winter maintenance page.
Take a look at our new Winter Wellbeing Guide packed with winter wellness tips and contact details of services in the City of London and Hackney that can help with health and wellbeing, loneliness and support, money and advice, cost of living support and family services. You will also find information about winter vaccinations and support in your community.