NHS experts have issued a crucial warning about the minimum temperature your home should be during the winter months for the sake of your health.
As the Met Office issues a stark warning, Brits are bracing for a sharp drop in temperatures this weekend. Some forecasts are predicting a -5C icy blast heading this way – with large parts of the country set for snow.
Umbrellas are also at the ready with the UK is set to see more stormy weather this week, with the north expecting more prolonged bouts of rain. Weather patterns are expected to be “changeable” over the next few days, according to the Met Office, with northern regions facing the possibility of overnight freezing fog and cold spells persisting throughout the week.
As the mercury falls, many will be tempted to crank up their heating to fend off the autumnal chill. However, amid soaring energy costs, some may think twice before reaching for the thermostat. Nonetheless, it’s vital to maintain a minimum temperature to avoid health risks, despite the temptation to cut corners on energy expenses, reports the Mirror.
The NHS, UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and Age UK have all advised that to protect against the cold, homes should be heated to at least 18C. This is especially important for those who are less mobile, over 65, or suffering from health conditions such as heart or lung disease.
Maintaining warmth during the colder months can help prevent common winter illnesses like colds and flu, as well as more severe health issues like heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia and depression.
The NHS recommends maintaining a comfortable temperature in your home – ideally, this means keeping the rooms you use most frequently, like your living room or bedroom, at a minimum of 18C.
For families with infants, it’s suggested to keep rooms between 16C and 20C while the baby sleeps to help lower the risk of sudden infant death syndrome.
With the cost of living putting pressure on household budgets, there are other simple adjustments you can make to help keep your home warm during the winter. The NHS advises drawing your curtains at dusk and keeping doors shut to block out draughts.
Installing draught excluders is a relatively inexpensive and straightforward way to retain heat in your home.
Ensure your bedroom windows are shut at night and opt for multiple layers of thin clothing, as this will provide more warmth than a single thick layer.
Consuming ample food and hot beverages will also aid in maintaining your body temperature, reducing the need to frequently adjust the thermostat.