Non-Profit Serving Seniors in Escambia County and Pensacola

Cold Weather Tips for the Elderly11/16/2016

As winter approaches and temperatures begin to drop, the elderly will be particularly vulnerable and at risk for developing hypothermia, a deadly condition caused by a drop in body temperature. The best way to prevent hypothermia is to stay warm.

Here are some tips to ensure your safety this season:

Keep your home comfortably heated.
Wear several layers of loose clothing. Tight layers of clothing can keep your blood from flowing freely, which can lead to loss of body heat.
Wear a windproof and waterproof coat or jacket if you plan to be outdoors.
If your hands and feet are cold, put on a hat. This causes your body to send more warm blood to our hands and feet.
Use a scarf to cover your neck.
At night, use hot water bottles, heating pads and electric blankets to help keep you warm.

SPACE HEATER SAFETY TIPS:

Do not place heaters under desks or other enclosed areas.
Heaters must be monitored when in operation.
Plug heater directly into a wall receptacle. Never plug it into an extension cord.
Heaters need to be monitored daily. Those heaters missing guards, control knobs, feet, etc. must be taken out of service immediately and repaired by a competent person.
Do not use heaters in rooms that will not be continually occupied.
Keep doors and windows closed, including storm windows. This will help prevent freeze-ups.
Keep space heaters away from exit ways, walkways and paths of travel.
Do not use space heaters in wet areas like bathrooms or kitchens.
Do not use portable space heaters if small children are expected in the area.

Council on Aging of West Florida is accepting monetary contributions and donations of new heaters and blankets for the elderly. Please drop off your donations at the Council on Aging office located at 875 Royce Street in Pensacola between the hours of 8am and 5pm, or call (850) 432-1475 for more information.

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