Most of the countries of the world are currently in the grip of cold. The dry cold has forced people to freeze, while in some places people are trying to keep themselves warm in the snow.
We have a few tips to help you stay safe from the effects of the cold.
Are there more infections in winter?
Michelle Roberts, News health editor, writes that colds and sore throats like flu and other such illnesses are more common at this time of year.
Cases of norovirus, the germ that causes vomiting, have increased in the winter, and this winter there is also Covid.
Cases of norovirus, the germ that causes vomiting, have increased in the winter, and this winter there is also Covid.
For example, in an enclosed space where windows and doors are closed and there is not much air flow, an infection spread through coughing and sneezing can easily infect another person.
However, practicing good hygiene, using a tissue or cloth to cover coughs and sneezes, washing hands frequently, can help prevent it.
What precautions should be taken when using electric and gas heaters?
Many people are using portable heaters, but if not used carefully, they can pose a serious fire hazard.
Firefighters and safety managers from the charity Electrical Safety First say you should place your heater on a flat surface to ensure it doesn’t fall on top of anyone.
The heater should be at least 3 feet away from any flammable material or object. Curtains, clothes and blankets hanging in the room should be away from the heater. Do not use a heater to dry your laundry or leave it on for long periods of time or overnight.
Experts also warn against running heaters plugged into extension leads as this could cause a fire.
Similarly, the use of gas heaters increases the risk of releasing toxic gases like carbon monoxide, so it should not be used for long periods of time.
How to keep children warm?
Infants and children under the age of five are most at risk in cold weather.
The UK Department of Health advises that children should wear several layers of clothing to keep them warm, and that they should be covered with lighter blankets rather than one at night. Importantly, babies do not need very hot rooms at night, a room temperature between 16 and 20 degrees Celsius is ideal.
Overheating is one of the possible causes of sudden infant death syndrome.
NCT Charity says it is important to take care of head and hands during winter. Make arrangements to keep your child’s head warm when going outside, i.e. wear a hat while using gloves on the hands.
An extra blanket or blanket can be placed over the children in the car if necessary.
How to keep pets safe in winter?
Like humans, animals can be at risk of hypothermia if they become too cold.
Veterinary charity PDSA recommends giving dogs and cats extra blankets for their beds during the winter months.
Raised beds can keep older dogs out of the cold, while cats may also like high places.
The charity also recommends extra playtime for pets to ensure they stay active even if they are spending less time outside, which toys can help with.
Consider keeping cats inside overnight and managing to urinate inside.
A sudden drop in temperature can also have a major impact on pets such as rabbits. They should be given extra bedding to avoid cold.