Healthy know how

Follow these tips to keep warm this winter:

• heat your home to a temperature that's comfortable for you. If you can, this should be at least 18°C in the rooms that you regularly use, such as your living room and bedroom. This is particularly important if you have a health condition
• if you have visitors, try to ventilate the room for a few minutes before and after the visit to help reduce the spread of germs
• try to keep the heat in your home by closing windows and curtains at night and consider other ways to reduce home heat loss
• keep your body, hands and feet warm by wearing warm clothing and make sure you stay dry. Several thin layers of clothing are better than one thick layer
• keep active at home, try to move around every hour
• eat at least one hot meal a day
• have regular hot drinks
• ensure you have a supply of heating fuel
• if you do need to go out in the cold, snow or ice, wrap up well and wear shoes with a good grip

You can find out more from Age Scotland for information on keeping warm and well in winter.

The Scottish Fire & Rescue Service have information available on heating your home safely this winter.

The Scottish Government have provided the following information on how you can get support during the cost of living crisis for:

• money and debt problems
• income and benefits
• energy and bills
• children and families
• older or disabled people

Contact your local council if you need urgent help with money, food or fuel.

To be prepared this winter, check you have:

• paracetamol and ibuprofen for pain relief (check the label or speak to your pharmacist to check it's suitable for you)
• anti-histamines to help allergies
• anti-diarrhoeals for diarrhoea
• indigestion remedies such as an antacid
• mild laxatives for constipation
• a first aid kit which includes plasters, bandages and antiseptic wipes for cuts and scrapes
• medicines specifically for children (your pharmacist can advise on the most suitable ones to keep in the house)