Practice updates

How to stay safe in cold weather

Cold weather can cause some people to become unwell. However, many of the health risks caused by cold weather are preventable.

Health problems in cold weather

Cold weather affects the body and can lead to illness. It can even cause death.

Cold weather can increase the risk of having a:

It can worsen symptoms if you have existing breathing problems or heart conditions.

Cold weather can also cause hypothermia and increase the risk of falls.

Why cold weather increases the risk of health problems

Cold weather increases the risk of health problems in winter because:

  • poor quality housing means houses can get very cold
  • infectious diseases like flu and norovirus are more common
  • there are more physical hazards like snow and ice – this can increase the risk of falls or accidents

Who’s at risk in cold weather?

Anyone can become unwell when the weather is cold. However, some people are more at risk. This includes:

  • people aged 65 or over
  • people with underlying health conditions, like heart or lung conditions or mental health conditions
  • children (particularly aged 5 and under)
  • pregnant women
  • people who are housebound or have low mobility

Certain housing or economic circumstances can also put you more at risk. For example, if you are:

  • sleeping rough
  • experiencing homelessness
  • living in homes that are harder to keep warm
  • unable to afford fuel and heating costs

How to prepare for cold weather

There are some steps you can take to help prepare for cold weather.

Plan ahead

Check your local weather forecast so that you know when cold weather is expected.

If bad weather is forecast, plan ahead. Check that you’ve got enough food, medicines and heating fuel (if you use it) in case it becomes harder to leave the house.

If you’re unsure about what medicines to keep at home or have any questions about your medication, speak to your local pharmacist.

Find your nearest pharmacy

Get vaccinated

Make sure you and your family are up to date with vaccines, if you’re eligible. This includes vaccines like:

Find out more about when and where to get vaccinations

Prepare your home

Make sure your home appliances are safe.

The increased use of fuel-burning appliances like gas heaters and boilers in winter can raise the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Have regular gas safety checks and have a carbon monoxide alarm (BS EN 50291 compliant) fitted.

If you can, make improvements to your home to help keep out the cold. You could think about:

  • draught-proofing
  • installing insulation
  • upgrading heating appliances to more energy-efficient ones

There may be grants and benefits available to help you make your home more energy efficient or help you manage your energy bills. Check mygov.scot to find out what benefits you could be eligible for.

Home Energy Scotland have tips on how to keep warm at home. They also have advice on the support and funding available.

How to stay safe in cold weather

By taking a few simple steps, you can help keep yourself and others safe and healthy in cold weather.

Check local weather updates

Listen to local radio for updates on current weather conditions.

Check any National Severe Weather Warnings covering your area, and follow any advice given.

Look out for others

Check in on vulnerable or older family members, friends and neighbours. They may need extra support during cold weather. Ask if they’re alright, or if they need any practical help.

Travel carefully

The Met Office has advice on how to drive or cycle safety in cold weather.

Look after your mental wellbeing

The shorter days and lower temperatures over the winter months can affect your mental wellbeing.

It’s important to:

  • take time to rest
  • eat regularly
  • try to get enough sleep
  • keep active or do some form of exercise, if you’re able
  • stay connected – keep in contact with friends and family online or by phone if you’re unable to get out

Find out more about how to look after your mental wellbeing

How to stay warm in cold weather

It’s important to keep warm, both indoors and outdoors. This can help prevent winter illnesses like colds, flu and other health problems.

Do

  • heat your home to a temperature that’s comfortable for you – if you can, this should be at least 18ºC in the rooms that you regularly use
  • wrap up warm, both inside and out
  • wear several layers of thin clothing instead of one thick layer
  • wear a hat and gloves when you go outside
  • close bedroom windows at night
  • try to move around every hour when you’re indoors
  • wear clothing to suit the conditions – like shoes with good grip to avoid falls on slippery or icy surfaces

Damp and mould

Cold weather can increase the likelihood of condensation forming inside your home. Left untreated, this can lead to damp and mould. Exposure to damp and mould can be harmful.

Find out more about the health impacts of damp and mould and how to reduce and prevent condensation in your home.