Airdrie & Coatbridge Advertiser
WORKING FOR YOU Stay safe over winter months
The dark nights are now truly setting in and with Halloween and Bonfire Night behind us, we are now entering the hectic countdown to the festive season.
With many of us getting ready for the festivities it can be easy to forget some of the challenges other people will face at this time of year.
To help provide information, I recently held a winter advice surgery in St Patrick’s hall. For those who were unable to attend, I’d like to use my Advertiser column to give a quick rundown of how you can take action now to prevent any winter emergencies; and give advice of where to turn to if you do encounter problems.
Warmworks’ Warmer Home Scotland scheme offered advice most of us will already practice, but it may slip our minds in such a busy period; remember to keep the living areas of your homes between 18 and 21 degrees to ensure you are kept warm enough; closing curtains can keep heat in once it gets dark outside; and draught-proofing your home can certainly be a worthwhile idea in the cold months.
SGN provided free emergency number 0800 111 999 for people with a gas emergency, while 105 can be called in the event of a power cut. They also advised having your gas appliances serviced by a registered engineer and fitting a carbon monoxide alarm.
NHS Lanarkshire advise that you stay warm, active and informed. There are many different services available throughout the festive season but it is advisable to check when your local GP is closed and make arrangements in advance for day to day needs, like ordering prescriptions.
You can also take preventive measures by getting your flu jab and staying indoors during cold weather if you have heart or respiratory problems.
Our mental health can also suffer during the winter months, with added stress making it harder to cope for many; several self-help methods are available on the NHS website.
Remember, if you are able, to check up on older relatives and neighbours to make sure they are safe and well and have access to food, warmth and medicine; if you have any concerns, you can contact North Lanarkshire Council, or Age Scotland on 0800 12 44 222.
Scottish Water advise protecting your pipes during the cold weather as we often forget how much we need fresh running water until we don’t have it. The home energy Scotland advice line is a one-stop shop for expert advice on saving money and energy in your home and can be contacted on 0808 808 2282.
Finally, money issues can crop up for anyone and it is nothing to be ashamed of. North Lanarkshire Council has a money advice service which can assist you with debt no matter how bad the situation may seem; they can be contacted on 01698 332551 while Citizens Advice in Coatbridge are available on 01236 421447.
Stay safe over the winter months folks, and remember my constituency office is always available for any queries or problems you may have.