How to protect your health in cold weather

Our main message during the winter months is to be prepared and know where to find help should you need it.

This webpage provides advice about how to prepare for cold weather, how to protect yourself and others from its effects, and where to look for help.

On this page:

Throughout the advice below, we link to webpages and sites that will give you further information - if you click on these links, use the "back arrow" on your browser to bring you back to this page.

Think about cold weather before it happens

  • The Government’s Be winter ready campaign provides advice on how to prepare for winter.
  • Met Éireann gives weather warnings in advance of any predicted cold snap:
    • Usually warnings will be given no more than 60 hours ahead of the expected adverse weather, but advisories on potential hazards are given up to a week in advance.
    • It is important to follow all advisories given. 
    • There are three levels (yellow, orange and red) linked to how bad Met Éireann thinks the weather will be.
    • Severe weather means really bad weather that is very cold, or with lots of ice or heavy snow (or all these things together). 
    • Impacts from things like wind, rain or snow vary depending on location, recent weather conditions, the state of the ground, the time of year and the duration of the event.

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Impacts of cold weather on your health

The negative health effects of cold weather start at temperatures of 4-8°C (39 - 46°F) or below. Colder temperatures can cause a range of health problems:

  • It can affect your body’s ability to fight off viruses and other infections. The body is not as effective at fighting a virus when cold air enters the nose and upper airways, so viruses such as the common cold, the flu and COVID-19 often spread more easily in the winter.
  • It can worsen underlying health conditions such as heart and lung disease.
  • It can increase the risk of a heart attack, stroke, falls, injuries and hypothermia.
  • It is also associated with an increased risk of mental health problems, such as depression and anxiety.

You’re at greater risk of illness in cold weather if you:

  • are aged over 65
  • are under the age of 5
  • have a long-term health condition such as heart, lung or kidney disease
  • have a disability
  • are struggling to afford heating
  • are homeless or sleeping on the streets

Preparation can help minimise risks.

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Top up your winter protection

Cold weather can affect your body’s ability to fight off viruses and other infections. The body is not as effective at fighting a virus when cold air enters the nose and upper airways, so viruses such as the common cold, the flu and COVID-19 often spread more easily in the winter.

Flu vaccine

Getting the flu vaccine is the best way to protect you against flu.

You can get a free flu vaccine if you are:

  • aged 65 years and older
  • aged 2 to 17 years
  • a healthcare worker
  • pregnant
  • living in a nursing home or other long-term care facility
  • in regular contact with pigs, poultry or waterfowl
  • someone with a health condition that puts you at higher risk of flu
  • living with someone who has a health condition that puts them at higher risk of flu
  • a carer for someone who has a health condition that puts them at higher risk of flu

The best time to get your flu injection is in September or October. But if you missed it then, make sure to get it as soon as you can.

COVID-19 vaccine

You should also ensure that you are up-to-date with your COVID-19 vaccinations.

Pneumococcal vaccine

Pneumococcal vaccination is recommended for those over aged 65 and those with certain chronic health conditions. See the HSE website for further information on the benefits of vaccination against pneumococcal disease.

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Available supports

If you are struggling to afford heating, ensure that you are on the vulnerable customer registers for the energy companies and Irish Water. 

You may be entitled to a fuel allowance to help with the cost of heating your home during the winter months. Many people getting a social welfare payment will qualify for this allowance.

In addition, a new expanded fuel allowance scheme for those aged over 70 was announced on December 5th 2022. Under this new scheme, the means-tested threshold has been reduced, meaning that more people will now qualify for additional energy supports. You can apply for this scheme here.

You may be entitled to a free or subsidised home energy upgrade through the SEAI.

A household benefits package is available to those aged 70 or older.

If you are homeless, supports are available from a number of homelessness services.

Additional advice on available financial supports can be found on the Citizens Informationand MyWelfare websites.

Top tips for staying warm

Keep yourself warm

  • It is best to avoid getting too cold in the first place.
  • Wear several layers of light clothes instead of one thick layer.
  • Wear clothes made of wool or fleecy synthetic fibres (cotton is only effective if the clothes stay dry). Thermal underwear can be very effective.
  • In very cold weather put extra blankets or duvets on your bed.
  • Put on a coat, hat, scarf, gloves and warm shoes or boots when you go outside.
  • Eating a healthy, balanced diet will help keep you warm and healthy in the winter. Make sure you and your family eat at least one hot meal a day and have plenty of hot drinks throughout the day.
  • Avoid too much alcohol or caffeine.
  • Listen to or watch the weather forecast and don’t go out in extreme weather if possible.
  • Keep active indoors. Moving around will help keep you warm.

Keep your environment warm

Research shows that cold homes have a negative impact on health and wellbeing:

  • Keep the rooms you spend most of your time in warm. This is especially important for infants, the elderly or those with chronic health conditions.
  • Ideally all rooms used during the day should be heated:
    • living room to around 18-21°C (65-70°F)
    • the rest of your house to at least 16°C (61°F).
  • If you can’t heat all your rooms, make sure that you keep one room warm throughout the day.
  • Close doors to separate heated areas from unheated areas of your home
  • Use draught excluders to stop draughts around doors, windows and skirting boards.
  • Never block wall vents as they are essential for good air quality in your home.
  • Carbon monoxide poisoning can be fatal, so if you have a natural gas or oil boiler, solid fuel fire, gas fire or standalone gas heater:
    • Check all air vents around the home to make sure they are are not blocked.
    • Install carbon monoxide alarms - visit carbonmonoxide.ie for helpful information and advice.
    • Remember alarms should also be fitted in caravans, boats, garages and any other location where fuel is burned or generators are in use.
  • If using a stove or open fire: 
    • Always guard open fires with a spark-guard and a fireguard secured to the wall.
    • Cover stoves with a fireguard secured to the wall.
    • Never put anything on top of a fireguard.
    • Ensure chimneys are clean and visit www.dublincity.ie for advice from Dublin Fire Brigade about how to avoid chimney fires. 
  • Keep portable heaters away from curtains and blinds as they could catch fire.
  • Make sure you have working smoke alarms and test them regularly.
  • In very cold weather, instead of turning the thermostat up, set the heating to come on earlier so you won’t be cold while you wait for your home to heat up. See the SEAI website for energy saving tips and advice and supports to help you keep warm.
  • If you use an electric blanket:
    • Check what type it it - some are designed only to warm the bed before you get in and should not be used throughout the night.
    • Do not use damaged electric blankets in your home - check electric blankets and their flexes regularly for signs of wear and tear.
    • Make sure there are no creases in the electric blanket and it lies flat on the mattress.
    • Never use an electric blanket and hot water bottle together as it could cause electrocution.
    • If you suffer with incontinence, chat to your GP or Public Health Nurse before using an electric blanket.

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Preparing for cold weather

Power cuts

The risk of power cuts or blackouts increases in winter. You should prepare yourself for a potential power cut:

  • Have batteries for torches and alternative light sources in the event of power cuts.
  • Keep a torch beside your bed and in your living room. Check the batteries regularly.
  • Keep mobile phones charged up - have local emergency numbers in your phone.
  • If you depend on medical equipment at home, such as such as home dialysis machine, a ventilator or an oxygen concentrator, make sure to register as a vulnerable customer with your electricity supplier. More information on how to register as a vulnerable customer can be found here.

Personal safety

  • Stock up on a small supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare foods like a carton of long life UHT milk, a loaf of bread in the freezer, and some tinned and dried foods.
  • Keep extra supplies of essential medication in case it is difficult to get to the doctor or pharmacy.
  • Have an enough fuel for heating and cooking. And, if possible have another suitable option in case your main supply fails.
  • Know how to turn off your water supply in the event of a big freeze or snowstorm. If your water supply is disrupted due to severe weather, you will find health advice on drinking water here.
  • Try to have a water container available that you can fill with drinking water if needed.
  • Consider buying salt to put on the footpaths near your home. Salt helps to melt ice.
  • Have a suitable snow shovel for clearing snow.
  • Get your vehicle serviced before winter sets in to make sure it is ready for bad weather (which often comes when you least expect it). See the Road Safety Authority (RSA) website for advice on vehicle maintenance and safety.

 See the Government's be winter ready campaign for further advice on how to prepare for a predicted cold snap.

Preventing falls and trips

While both young and old present to Emergency Departments as a result of falls on ice, as we get older a fall can result in broken bones, a loss of confidence, and loss of mobility and fear of leaving the home. So our advice is to:

  • Stay indoors if possible when the weather is bad.
  • If you need to go outside in icy conditions, be extra careful and follow these tips from the Road Safety Authority:
    • If a journey cannot be avoided walk on a footpath, not in the street. If there are no footpaths walk on the right hand side of the road (towards oncoming traffic). Be extremely careful as frost, ice and snow will make walking on footpaths very dangerous.
    • Remember that footpaths may not be treated so walk with extreme care, make sure you are wearing appropriate footwear (footwear with good grips and no high heels) and in extreme conditions consider an appropriate walking stick or walking pole.
    • Avoid walking in the streets at all costs if possible. Remember, cars and trucks slip and slide, too! If it’s an emergency, and you can’t avoid the street, wear bright or reflective clothing.
    • Visibility is reduced in snowy condition so wear high visibility clothing or carry a torch
    • Wear clothing that does not restrict your vision. Stay warm, but DO NOT impair your vision with hoodies, ski masks, scarves, hats, etc. This type of clothing could prevent you from spotting icy conditions that may lead to a fall or not enable you to see a car that is spinning out of control.
    • Snow and ice cause havoc quickly, so use extra caution when crossing roadways, and always cross at pedestrian crossings.
    • Ice can easily hide under a light dusting of snow. Just because you don’t see the ice doesn’t mean it’s not there waiting for your unsuspecting footfalls.
    • If you can’t avoid the ice and snow, bend your knees slightly and take slower, shorter steps to help reduce the chance of a slip and fall and an injury.
    • If forced to use the steps at someone’s home, apartment, or other public building, walk slow and take shorter steps when descending. The same is true of driveways and other hilly terrain; these areas can be very dangerous when they become slippery with ice or snow. Steps especially can be hard to clear and build up ice easily.
    • Be aware of overhead hazards! Falling icicles and chunks of snow pose a serious risk. In extreme cold weather icicles can build up in size very quickly and are lethal. Their size and dagger-like formation are extremely dangerous for pedestrians. Be aware of what’s happening above you, and stay clear from the edges of buildings.

(The above 10 points are taken directly from the RSA's tips on how to avoid slips and falls on ice).

Staying safe on the road

The golden rule is to drive, cycle or walk with extreme care and caution and expect the unexpected. 

 The following advice will help reduce the risk of injury:

  • Get your vehicle serviced before winter sets in to make sure it is ready for bad weather (which often comes when you least expect it). See the Road Safety Authority (RSA) website for advice on vehicle maintenance and safety.
  • The RSA strongly recommends that motorists carry a number of essentials in the boot of their car all year round. These items should include: 
    • High visibility vest
    • A working torch
    • A hazard warning triangle
    • De-icing equipment (for glass and door locks)
    • First aid kit
    • Blanket (to help keep you warm if your car breaks down in cold weather and you are waiting for help)
  • No matter how short the car journey is, it is always a good idea to bring a warm coat and waterproof jacket with you in case of car breakdown.
  • In severe weather conditions consider whether you really have to travel.
  • Consider whether it’s possible to delay your trip until the weather and road conditions improve.
  • If you absolutely need to travel, use public transport where available.
  • If you really have to travel by car check the weather forecast for the area you will be travelling in and make sure the route is passable before starting your journey.
  • Be prepared for severe conditions and follow the advice from Road Safety Authority (RSA) on driving in severe weather.

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Advice on medications, medical appointments and what to do if you or others feel unwell

Medications

  • Keep extra supplies of essential medication in case it is difficult to get to the doctor or pharmacy.
  • Store medicines at the recommended temperature (read the storage instructions on the packaging).
  • Store medicines in their original containers or packaging and keep out of sight and reach of children.

Medical appointments

  • If travel services or roads are disrupted due to bad weather, you may need to change planned visits to hospital or other health centres for appointments. Even a planned operation may need to be changed.
  • If severe disruption occurs, some health services may have to change their opening times.
  • If you have a question about a planned appointment, phone the hospital or clinic that you are due to attend to check on any changes to services.

If you or others feel unwell

As temperatures fall, emergency departments become busier and there are increased hospital admissions.

  • Common illnesses like sore throats, colds, earaches and fevers in children can be managed at home without needing to go to a GP or Emergency Department for treatment. 
  • See the HSE website for tips on how to treat common illnesses at home.
  • If you are worried about your health during a cold snap and feel you need treatment, contact your GP for advice.
  • If you feel very unwell or have any unusual symptoms, you should attend your local emergency department.
  • Know your EIRCODE so that emergency services can easily find you in an emergency.

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Hypothermia

If you suspect someone has hypothermia call an ambulance by dialling 112 or 999 from any phone.

Hypothermia is a life threatening lowering of core body temperature caused by exposure to extreme cold.

Hypothermia happens when your body temperature drops below 35°C (95°F). 

Hypothermia is a serious condition and you need to get medical help as soon as possible.

Here is what to look out for in yourself or others:

  • not feeling cold, even when the temperature is low
  • cold skin in areas normally covered by clothing, for example, tummy or armpits
  • shivering
  • drowsiness
  • slurred speech
  • slow breathing
  • feeling unsteady when moving
  • pale and puffy face
  • feeling confused

If you suspect someone has hypothermia get medical help immediately. While waiting for medical help:

  • Slowly try to get the person's temperature up. It is dangerous to warm them too quickly.
  • If the person is outside, try to get them indoors and wrap them in blankets to slowly bring their temperature up.
  • If they are wet, remove their wet clothing and dress them in dry clothes. If they are conscious and can swallow, give them warm (not hot), sweet, weak tea to drink.
  • If you cannot get the person indoors, cover their head and neck and, if you can, place something underneath them to insulate them from the cold ground. Warm them slowly, using your own body heat if necessary. 
  • But:
    • Do not rub their arms, legs, feet or hands.
    • Do not use a hot bath, hot water bottle or heat lamp to warm them up.
    • Do not give them alcohol to drink.

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Look out for others

  • In winter, it can be difficult to carry out day to day activities. It is even more difficult for older people and other vulnerable people.
  • The public is asked to make a special effort to keep in contact with their neighbours and relatives, particularly those living alone, those who are isolated, ill, disabled or very young.
  • Try to call on elderly relatives and neighbours and ensure they have enough food and any prescription drugs they may need.
  • Try to ensure that they have enough fuel to maintain adequate heating in their homes.
  • If you have any concerns about someone who may be vulnerable, get the help of An Garda Síochána or local health and social services.

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Advice for older people and their families and neighbours

People over age 65 are more susceptible to viruses such as the cold, flu and COVID-19.

It is important to make sure you are up to date with your flu and Covid-19 vaccinations.

Older adults are at greater risk of hypothermia in very cold weather. Our ability to feel a change in temperature decreases as we age and older adults are more susceptible to health problems caused by cold. So our advice is to:

  • Place an easy to read room thermometer indoors in your frequently used rooms. Keep the room you are using above 18 (65°F) degrees minimum at all times, but older adults may be more comfortable keeping the temperature closer to 21°C (70°F) degrees. Heat your bedroom before you go to bed in the evening.
  • You may be entitled to a fuel allowance to help with the cost of heating your home
  • A new expanded fuel allowance scheme for those aged over 70 was announced on December 5th 2022. Under this new scheme, the means-tested threshold has been reduced, meaning that more people will now qualify for additional energy supports. You can apply for this scheme here
  • A household benefits package is also available to those aged 70 or older.
  • Ensure that older, vulnerable people, especially those who live alone, wear a personal alarm. These can be worn on the wrist. In case of a fall, by pressing the alarm button, family or emergency services can be alerted.
  • If elderly people have certain medical conditions such as diabetes, a medic alert bracelet can be helpful.
  • If you depend on medical equipment at home, such as such as home dialysis machine, a ventilator or an oxygen concentrator, make sure to register as a vulnerable customer with your electricity supplier. More information on how to register as a vulnerable customer can be found here.
  • Stock up on a small supply of non-perishable, easy-to-prepare foods like a carton of long life UHT milk, a loaf of bread in the freezer, and some tinned and dried foods.
  • Ensure you have a working tin opener. If you have arthritis, you may need a modified easy-to-use one, or an electric one.
  • Speak to your local shop, they may be able to deliver groceries to you in the event of a cold snap. Some of the major grocery shops offer free delivery to the over 65s.
  • Find out if there is a meals-on-wheels delivery service in your local area. This can usually be accessed through your local public health nurse or family resource centre. For a small charge they will usually deliver a hot meal and a sandwich to any older people who cannot cook for themselves.
  • If you have been in hospital, ask a family member or a neighbour to heat your house before you go home.
  • If you use an electric blanket:
    • Check what type it is - some are designed only to warm the bed before you get in and should not be used throughout the night.
    • Never use an electric blanket and hot water bottle together as it could cause electrocution.
    • Do not use damaged electric blankets in your home - check electric blankets and their flexes regularly for signs of wear and tear.
    • Make sure there are no creases in the electric blanket and it lies flat on the mattress.
    • If you suffer with incontinence, chat to your GP or Public Health Nurse before using an electric blanket.
  • If you need to walk outside, walk on the footpath but remember footpaths may not be treated and may be icy.
  • Make sure you are wearing appropriate footwear with good grips, and do not walk with your hands in your pockets.

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Cold snaps- advice for some specific medical conditions

 Advice for people with chronic kidney disease

  • If you are a dialysis patient, and know that a storm is forecast and you are likely to be snowed in, contact the dialysis team in advance to see what options they suggest. For example, maybe your dialysis day can be brought forward.
  • Many store cupboard staples such as tinned soups and baked beans are not suitable for those on a renal diet. Therefore, careful planning of your winter food cupboard is important. The renal dieticians registered with the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute have suggestions on their website for some suitable store cupboard items and some meal ideas. 

Advice for people with osteoporosis

  • During cold, icy weather there is an increased risk of falls and fractures. If you have osteoporosis, a fall is more likely to cause a fracture.
  • Consider not going for a walk outdoors if conditions are very icy. If you still wish to get exercise, perhaps walk around a large supermarket or shopping centre.
  • Walk carefully, with a shorter stride.
  • Take your time, don’t turn suddenly.
  • Wear proper shoes with good grips, snow boots ideally, and no high heels.
  • If you fall, try to minimise the impact by falling on your side or bottom, or putting both arms out rather than one. Try to spread the impact over a large area of your body.
  • If you fall, be careful getting up, as you are at high risk of slipping again.
  • Be cautious on steps, as ice can build up on them easily.
  • See the RSA's Top 10 Safety Tips To Avoid A Slip or Fall In Ice and Snow for more information.

 Advice for people with heart disease

  • If you have a history of heart disease, such as angina or a heart attack, you need to take care in very cold weather.
  • If you are snowed in, do not attempt to shovel the snow away yourself. This unaccustomed sudden physical exertion may put an increased strain on your heart.
  • Stay active when you are indoors to build up your core body temperature.
  • Visit the Irish Heart Foundation's website for more information about cold weather and your heart. 

Advice for people with respiratory disease

  • Illnesses such as COPD and asthma can become noticeably worse in cold weather.
  • Breathing in cold air can lead to narrowing of your airways and a worsening of wheeze. 
  • Wrapping up well, keeping your core body temperature up and wrapping a scarf around your mouth and nose will help.  
  • When you are outdoors in cold weather, breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Your nose has blood vessels that warm and humidify the air before it gets to your lungs, but breathing through your mouth brings the very cold, dry air straight to your lungs and airways.
  • Be vigilant about maintaining your medication regime - take preventative inhalers regularly and keep relievers close to hand.
  • Talk to your GP about a flare-up plan such as an asthma action plan - if cold air triggers an attack, you will know exactly what to do.
  • In winter, there are typically more respiratory viruses circulating.  Ensure that you get your flu vaccine, COVID booster and, if you have not had it, the pneumococcal vaccine.
  • Avoid contact with people who have a cold or flu.
  • Stop smoking – it is one of the best things you can do for your winter health. See QUIT.ie for information and support.

 Advice for people with arthritis

  • Joint pain and stiffness are often feel worse during extremely cold weather.
  • Keeping warm and layering up will help.
  • It is especially important for arthritis sufferers to maintain their exercise programme or regime. Keeping your joints mobile can help relieve stiffness and pain. Stretching exercises, swimming indoors or pedalling an exercise bike will all help to keep joints mobile.

Advice for people with poor circulation

Raynaud’s Disease

  • Raynaud’s affects your blood circulation- when you’re cold, your fingers and toes may change colour, turning white or blue.
  • It can also cause numbness, pain and tingling in the affected area.
  • It can be prevented by keeping your hands and feet warm, keeping moving to improve circulation and by keeping your home warm.

Chilblains

  • Chilblains are small itchy swellings that occur on the skin as a reaction to cold weather.
  • They can be very uncomfortable.
  • They usually occur on fingers that are exposed to the cold, and then heated up rapidly.
  • They can also occur on feet, ears, nose - any extremity exposed to the cold.
  • They can be prevented by limiting exposure to cold, and if your skin does get cold, by warming it up gradually.
  • Do not put your hands directly on a radiator or into hot water- this sudden change in temperature is one of the main causes of chilblains.

Advice for people with diabetes

  • In extremely cold weather, check your skin and feet regularly. People with diabetes sometimes have impaired sensation, and may not realise they have developed chilblains or sores on the feet.
  • If your diabetes causes poor circulation you may also feel cold weather more acutely. It is very important to keep warm, dress in layers and protect the extremities from the cold temperatures.
  • Be careful if using a hot water bottle or heat pack. If you have any nerve damage or loss of sensation, you may not feel extreme heat, and be prone to scalds and burns.
  • You may find your blood sugars are affected by cold weather. Less opportunity for exercise may lead to higher readings, and blood sugar levels often rise if you are unwell with a cold or flu.
  • Keep a close watch on your blood glucose monitoring during a cold snap, especially if you are on insulin, as your insulin requirements may change.
  • If your hands are cold, it can be harder to get blood from a pinprick, so ensure your hands are warm before you try to check blood sugars.
  • In extreme weather, consider your insulin storage also. Check the manufacturers label for proper storage conditions for your particular brand but, in general, Insulin cannot be used if it has frozen and thawed.
  • Do not leave medication or equipment outside in your car. Freezing temperatures can make them less effective.

Advice on caring for someone with dementia

People with dementia are more vulnerable during an extreme cold snap:

  • If someone with dementia wanders from home or becomes disorientated and lost, they are at risk of hypothermia from extreme cold exposure.
  • Snow can increase the risk of disorientation because it can change how the landscape looks. So even a familiar landscape can become disorientating.
  • Due to communication difficulties, they may not be able to describe if they are feeling cold. You may need to physically check their temperature if you are concerned. With their permission, gently put your hand on the back of their neck. Cold hands and feet are not a reliable indicator of temperature, their core temperature is important to check.
  • Due to memory problems, they may forget to dress warmly or to turn the heating on.
  • If the person has early memory difficulties but lives alone, it is important to regularly check in with them - even a phone call if you cannot call in person.

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Advice for parents and care-givers – tips to keep your children warm this winter

Many children enjoy the winter time - the prospect of snow and ice can be very exciting. But very cold weather also can bring some health risks for your child, and can increase their risk of injuries. Children have small bodies compared to adults, this means they lose heat more quickly than adults do. Rarely, if your child is exposed to very cold weather they could be at risk of hypothermia or even frostbite which can be life threatening. Here are some things we would like parents and care-givers to be aware of, especially for children under the age of 5.

Staying safe while playing outside

Outdoor play in cold weather, once children don't get too cold, can be a great way for children to get the recommended 60 minutes of exercise they need. 

To reduce your child’s risk of becoming too cold:

  • Make sure your child is wearing the right type of clothes. Several thin layers of clothing is the best way to keep your child warm and dry. Keep their head, neck and hands covered. Put gloves or mittens and a hat on them. Cover their ears to prevent frostbite. Warm socks and wellies or waterproof boots will keep little toes nice and warm. Hoodies, scarves or hats with strings, or mittens with strings, could get caught around your child’s neck or get caught in play equipment, this could put your child at risk of strangulation or other serious injury. Always choose clothes without strings or cords.
  • If you do choose to sledge or slide on the snow, only do so during the daytime. Choose a slope that is not too steep and doesn’t end near a road. Check for obstacles along the slope like trees. Put a helmet on your child and watch them closely. Young children do not know how to stop, or control the speed. Never let small children use sledges or toboggans on their own.
  • Teach your child never to stand on rivers, canals, lakes or any other body of water that has iced over. It is not possible to tell how much weight the ice can withstand. Even thick ice can crack and break and this could cause serious injuries and death. If you have a dog, keep them on a lead as if your dog walks on the ice or falls in the water you or your child may be tempted to go after them.
  • Keep a close eye on your child while you are outdoors, know when it’s time to come in and warm up. Children who are having fun might not notice the cold. Take breaks from the cold and bring your child indoors to warm up for a bit. If their clothes get wet, change them immediately once you get home. Remove extra layers of clothing once you get home to stop your small child getting too hot.

Staying safe indoors

As the evenings get colder and darker it can be more comfortable to snuggle up at home with your child, while keeping your home warm. With fuel prices soaring it can be difficult to keep heat in the home. On the other hand, if your child is under 1, it’s important that their room does not get too hot, as this could put them at risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS or “cot death”).

  • Close your curtains and blinds in the evening and close doors to block out draughts to help keep your home warm.
  • Don’t let your child overheat, this increases their risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Your child should sleep in a room heated to between 16-20 degrees Celsius. A room thermometer is the best way to check the temperature of the room. Don’t let your baby go to sleep while wearing a hat. Make sure they are not overdressed, a nappy, vest and Babygro are enough. A cotton cellular blanket or sleeveless baby sleeping bag will help them to stay snug. If you are using cellular blankets, you can make your baby warmer by adding one if needed. Keep an eye on how warm your baby is, if they are flushed and sweating and hot to touch they could be at risk of overheating.
  • Get your heating system serviced regularly to make sure it meets safety standards and is running efficiently.
  • Make sure your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms are working too.
  • If you use an open fire, make sure your chimney is cleaned regularly.
  • If you have a mantelpiece or fireplace surround, make sure it has been secured and fitted professionally. If this falls on your child it could cause serious injury.
  • Blazing fires and wood burning stoves are very cosy during winter. But fires and stoves are dangerous for small children. Put up a fire-guard or protective gate. And always use a sparkguard, as well as a fireguard, on an open fire.

Staying safe on the road or in your car

  • As the evenings are getting darker much earlier, it’s important to make sure you and your child are seen when you are out walking or cycling. When the weather is cold, traffic can be heavier than usual as more people take to their cars. If you usually walk your child to school or childcare, make sure your child can be seen by dressing them in bright clothing, and using “hi vis” vests or armbands in the dark. You can get these for free on the Road Safety Authority website here.
  • If it’s very icy or there is snow around, don’t travel by foot unless it cannot be avoided.
  • If you are travelling by car, always put your child in a properly fitted car seat or booster seat, no matter how short the journey is. This is particularly important when roads are covered with snow or ice, as there is a greater risk of accidents.
  • Dress your child in thin snug layers. Thick or bulky snowsuits or winter coats can mean that your child is not securely strapped into their car seat. In a crash, the bulky coat or suit becomes squashed and the straps become loose.
  • Keep antifreeze away from small children at all times.

Keeping your child safe during power cuts

A power cut can be an adventure for children, but can be challenging for the rest of the family, even if it’s just for a few hours. Power cuts can make it more difficult to care for your baby or small child. Most of your home appliances won’t work. It can be difficult to keep stored breastmilk or infant formula safe. And if your mobile phone is not charged you might not be able to communicate with others.

The tips below will help you keep your family safe and warm during power cuts.

Here are a few things to keep in mind during a power cut.

  • Babies and small children are curious, and may be fascinated by candles and torches. Be sure to keep burning candles, matches and lighters out of sight and reach of children.
  • Try and keep your floors free of clutter, as this could be a trip hazard if the room is poorly lit.
  • Keep a torch handy for those night feeds and changes, and checking on your baby while they are asleep.
  • If you get notice of the power cut, charge up all your devices, and preserve battery life during the power cut.
  • If you are using stored breastmilk, this can be kept for 4 hours at temperatures less than 20 degrees Celsius. It is safer to use frozen breastmilk that has just been thawed rather than using breastmilk that has been in a fridge that is not working for more than 4 hours. For more tips about safely storing breastmilk go to the HSE webpage here.
  • Keep the door of your fridge closed as much as possible, this will help it stay cool.
  • It might be difficult to safely prepare powdered infant formula without access to a kettle and a fridge. Ready to feed infant formula is safest to use, as it does not need to be mixed with water. If it’s unopened it does not need to be in the fridge. Another option, if you have access to a hob that does not require electricity, is to boil 1L of water in a clean pan. Cool it for 30 minutes in the pan. Don’t leave it for longer than 30 minutes. Pour the correct amount of water into a sterilised bottle before adding the exact amount of powdered infant formula. Screw the lid of the bottle on tightly and give it a good shake. Cool the bottle rapidly by holding under running cold tap water. For more details on safely preparing your baby’s bottle visit the HSE webpage.
  • Baby equipment like breast pumps, soothers and bottles need to be sterilised before using for your baby. If you use a steam or microwave steriliser normally, these will not work. You will need to boil baby equipment for 10 minutes. Alternatively you could use sterilising fluid, make sure it is suitable for use with cold water and keep it out of sight and reach of children.
  • If you use reusable (“cloth”) nappies consider switching to disposable nappies during the power cut. This is because washing nappies will be difficult if there is no electricity.

Frostbite

If you think your child has frostbite, take them indoors to a warm area immediately and call your GP or your Out of Hours GP service for advice. If their symptoms are severe contact your Emergency Department.

Frostbite is damage to skin and tissue caused by exposure to any temperature below minus 0.55 degrees Celsius. It can affect any part of the body but is most likely to affect your child’s hands, feet, ears, nose and lips. One or more of these areas might look pale, grey and blistered. Your child might be complaining of pain, numbness or tingling.

Hypothermia

Hypothermia is a dangerous drop in your child’s temperature (usually below 35 degrees Celsius). It is a medical emergency that needs hospital treatment. If you think your child has hypothermia go to your Emergency Department or call 999 or 112.

A baby with hypothermia might be cold to touch, their skin may be red. They might seem floppy, or be quieter than usual, sleeping and refusing to feed. Older children may be shivering, have pale, cold and dry skin, their lips may be blue. They may be breathing slowing or seem tired or confused.

While you are waiting for help move your child indoors and remove any wet clothing. Wrap them in a blanket or a dry towel. Give older children a warm drink, and some sugary food like chocolate. Keep them awake, and make sure you stay with them. Offer your baby a breastfeed or a warm formula feed.

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Last updated on 16/12/2022