Avoiding danger from the cold

Living in a cold place can cause hypothermia, which is a serious condition. This happens when body temperature drops very low (below 36°C or 95°F). If you find an older person living in a cold place where the temperature is below 16°C (61°F), help them to get warmer. Don't take their word for it if they say they are not cold.

Danger signs:

- Drowsiness
- Slurred Speech and slow breathing
- Feeling Confused
- Unsteady movement
- A puffy, pale face
- The body feels cold to the touch

What to do:

- Move them to warmer surroundings
- Wrap them in a light layer of blankets
- Give them a warm, nourishing drink such as soup (not alcohol)
- Call a doctor or nurse
- Don't move them next to a fire or give them a hot-water bottle, as this would change their body temperature too quickly

Keep Warm Keep Well is a national campaign to reduce cold-related illness and deaths during winter.
Visit www.direct.gov.uk/keepwarmkeepwell for information and advice on how to keep well during winter by keeping warm and what financial support is available.