Worried about the upcoming winter? Feeling the pinch when it comes to cranking up the heat for your family amidst rising inflation and energy costs? Don’t panic. Now, with the government’s Central Heating Grants, you can turn on your central heating system and shield yourself and your family from the freezing cold.
These grants help you replace your old, in-efficient boiler and get a brand new more energy efficient model. What’s more, you may also be eligible for heat pumps that are more energy efficient than boilers.
The government is trying its best to provide much-needed relief to those who are not able to afford winter heating. You can check your eligibility for central heating grants by entering your postcode here.
Besides showing you the path to various government grants, we shall provide you with some valuable winter preparation tips that heating experts regularly share. So, keep reading!
1. Vulnerability to Cold: Risks and Realities
Winter in the UK can be tough. Firstly, more people lose their lives during the colder months, from December to March. As per data issued by Public Health England, around 25,000 extra deaths happen every winter in England. We call these extra deaths “excess winter deaths.”
One big reason for this is that many homes in the UK aren’t ready for the cold. Consequently, they can be cold, damp, and not good at keeping heat inside. This makes the UK have more winter deaths compared to other European countries.
Moreover, it’s not just about mortality rate. Essentially, cold weather makes people more likely to get sick. Some groups are at a higher risk, like children and elderly, and those with long-term illnesses, especially diseases related to the heart and lungs.
In order to avoid any mishap, you should make your home cozy by sealing drafts if any. Additionally, you can stay healthy by getting regular check-ups, flu shots, and staying active. Likewise, you can help each other by spreading the word about government help, checking on neighbors, and working together on winter plans.
The government is handing out central heating grants to families who might be feeling the chill more than usual. Yes, you heard it right – free help to keep your home warm this winter without burning a hole in your pocket.
So, while winter is knocking, and worries are cranking up, don’t forget, there’s a way to turn up the heat without turning up the stress.
2. Keep Indoor Temperature between 18°C and 21°C
The Cold Weather Plan for England recommends keeping indoor temperatures between 18°C and 21°C. This is crucial for your health, and it also makes you feel better. Also, it helps you prevent getting sick from the cold. It also creates a comfy and happy home environment. So, during chilly days, make sure to keep your home in this temperature range!
3. Protecting against Flue
Flue is a contagious respiratory illness that can make kids feel pretty awful.
While most cases of the flu are mild and go away on their own within a week or two, there can be serious complications, especially for young children and those with underlying health conditions.
The best way to shield your child from the flu is to get them vaccinated every year. The flu vaccine is safe and effective, and it can significantly reduce the risk of your child getting the flu or experiencing severe symptoms if they do get it.
What to Do if Your Child Gets the Flu
If your child does catch the flu, don’t panic. Most cases can be managed at home with plenty of rest and fluids. Over-the-counter medications can help relieve symptoms like fever and aches.
However, if your child has a fever that’s higher than 104 degrees Fahrenheit, is having trouble breathing, or seems very dehydrated, seek medical attention immediately.
Additional Tips to Prevent the Flu
In addition to getting vaccinated, there are several things you can do to help prevent the flu from spreading to your child:
Teach your child to wash their hands often with soap and water.
Encourage your child to cover their mouth and nose with a tissue when they cough or sneeze.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
By following these simple tips, you can help keep your child flu-free and healthy all season long.
4. Asthma and Heart Risks
Really cold weather isn’t great for our health. Especially if you have asthma or heart issues, winter can be tough. To stay healthy, our bodies need to be at 37C, so it’s important to keep rooms warm, at least 18C.
5. Winter Safety for Pregnant Women
Women should always take good care of themselves. Moreover, it’s even more important during pregnancy. Additionally, the winter season brings a new set of safety concerns for pregnant women, such as dehydration, falls, and flu season.
Being pregnant weakens the immune system, making you more susceptible to flu and cold viruses. It can also take longer to recover if you get sick. So, strengthen your defences by maintaining a healthy diet. This is crucial to get the right balance of nutrients for you and your baby. Additionally, it helps keep your immune system in balance, preventing you from falling prey to winter bugs.
6. Simple Home Hacks
Draught-proof doors and windows, insulate the loft, lag the hot-water tank and pipes, and think about getting cavity-wall insulation. Not only do these actions keep your home warm, but they also help lower energy bills. Plus, you might be able to get financial help for these improvements.
Close the curtains in the evenings to keep the heat in. Also, consider fitting thermal linings if you can. By doing this, you create a warmer space.
Additionally, maintain a warm temperature in your main living room, aiming for 70°F (21°C). Similarly, ensure your bedroom stays comfortably heated at 64°F (18°C). This ensures a snug and cozy home.
Finally, keep your bedroom window closed at night when it’s cold. This is especially important just before dawn, as breathing in cold air increases the risk of chest infections.
7. Simple Heating Strategies
To warm your home without spending too much, focus on smart heating practices. Ensure your home is well-insulated and regularly service your heating system.
Understand how your heating system’s timer and thermostat work. Set the timer to switch on the heating earlier for cost-effective warmth. Additionally, arrange annual servicing with a Gas Safe-registered engineer for gas heating systems. For extra assistance, check with your energy supplier about their Priority Services Register, providing support to older or disabled individuals.
8. Weather Planning for Work and Family
Consider how you’ll get to work during severe weather. Sometimes roads might be bad, but trains could be running fine, or vice versa. If main roads are clear, a bus might be an option. Additionally, can you work from home if travel is not recommended? Plan for alternative childcare if schools or nurseries are closed.
9. Government Grants for Winter?
Are you struggling with your energy bills? Make sure you’re not missing out on any help that can keep you and your home warm.
You might get financial support from the government under the ECO4 Scheme if you’re on a low income or receive certain benefits. Check with the Eco Energy Services to see if you qualify.
You can also check if you’re eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment, a tax-free payment to help with heating costs, paid between November and December.
If you get Pension Credit or certain other benefits, you could qualify for free boiler grants. If you don’t have central heating, there are grants for first-time central heating or air source heat pumps.
If paying your bills is tough, talk to your energy company. They shouldn’t disconnect households with all pensioners during winter.
Conclusion
Cold weather can be a concern as we age. Additionally, our bodies react differently to the cold as we get older, making us more vulnerable to serious health issues. However, with some preparation and by following simple suggestions, you can stay healthy, safe, and comfortable this winter.