In 2009, 16,000 households in the NHS Highland area were in extreme fuel poverty, spending 20% or more of their household income on heating their homes.
As fuel prices are increasing, keeping our homes and ourselves warm this winter is a big challenge.
But NHS Highland Director of Public Health, Dr Margaret Somerville, explained that cold homes can have a big effect on people’s health, increasing their risk of strokes, heart attacks, serious chest infections and depression.
She said: “Last year in Scotland, the deaths of 2,450 people were linked to the cold.
“And the chances of getting unwell are higher if you are over 60, already have a long-term health condition or a disability or you are struggling to afford to heat your home.
“So, it’s well worth heeding your granny’s advice about wrapping up warm this winter. Whilst it may not protect you from catching every cough and cold going around, scientific research shows that people who keep warm as the temperature drops are less likely to develop the most serious illnesses and need medical treatment."
Dr Somerville suggested the following hints and tips for keeping warm as the temperature drops:-
• Try to keep your home warm. Your main living area should be between 18 -21°C (64-70°F). The rest of the house should be a minimum of 16°C (61°F). You may be able to claim financial and practical help with the costs of heating your home.
• Use a hot water bottle or electric blanket (but not at the same time) to keep warm if you’re sitting for long periods or in bed. Wrap up warm, several thin layers of clothes work better than one thick layer.
• Keep active, move around at least once an hour and try not to sit down for long periods of time.
• Have regular hot drinks and, if you can, eat at least one hot meal a day to keep your energy levels up.
• Don’t forget hats, gloves and scarves when you go out.
• Icy conditions can be slippery underfoot, use grit on paths and steps and wear shoes with a good grip on the soles.
She added that we should all also look out for friends and neighbours who may not venture out in the cold weather.
Dr Somerville said: “We need to check whether they are warm enough at night and whether they have enough food and medicines.”
Anyone having difficulty heating their home can get free and independent advice from the Home Energy Scotland Hotline. They can advise on ways to keep your home warm, reduce your fuel bills, deal with difficulties paying for fuel and find the best tariff.
The hotline can be contacted on 0800 512 012 (calls to this number are free from landlines). To call from a mobile, dial 0300 456 2655 (this is charged at local rates). Hotline advisors are happy to call you back if you ask them.
