Oil’s well for those who keep heating serviced
A TRADE association has urged householders in Runcorn and Widnes to avoid enduring the cold after figures revealed 870 excess winter deaths in Halton in recently released data.
Oftec, which represents the oil heating business, said one in 10 families will struggle to stay warm until spring arrives.
The group said homes in rural areas are more at risk as their houses are more likely to be older and poorly-insulated.
The trade body urged residents to visit older relatives and friends to make sure they are looking after themselves.
In addition they should make sure their main room is kept at a minimum temperature of 21°C and other rooms at 18°C or more, ensure that the heating comes on at the right time and radiators are turned off in rooms not being used and make sure nothing is blocking radiators.
The organisation said householders reliant on oil for their heating should make sure they have enough in the tank for the rest of winter and the boiler is serviced by an Oftec registered technician or find a ● registered technician at www.oftec.org.uk if it does break down.
Malcolm Farrow, of Oftec, said: “The holiday season can be an exciting time of year for households across Cheshire.
“However, with all the extra associated costs, we mustn’t forget that for many people this period can be a real struggle. Unfortunately, with finances tight, we have seen an increasing number of households turning down the thermostat in an effort to save money.
“This has been reflected in the high number of excess winter deaths recorded in the county which is partly attributed to people suffering health complications as a result of living in a cold home.
“Whilst there is good news for the 9,000 oil households in Cheshire who are still enjoying the lowest heating bills of any fuel type, there are still too many people living in fuel poverty.
“This is why it is so important to ensure you regularly visit older relatives and friends over the holiday period to check they are keeping warm and well.”