Holiday preparedness can mean different things to different people. Not only should kids wear a coat to avoid catching a cold, but adults should too. If you’re not a kid anymore than you lose body heat faster than when you were young.
- Drink alcohol moderately. Alcoholic drinks can actually make you lose body heat faster.
- Set your heat at 68°F or higher. To save on heating bills, close off rooms you’re not using. Close the vents and shut the doors in these rooms, and keep the basement door closed. Place a rolled towel in front of all doors to keep out drafts, (but don’t trip.)
- Make sure your house is not losing heat through the windows. Keep your blinds and curtains closed. If you have gaps around the windows, try using weather stripping or caulk to keep the cold air out.
- Dress warmly on cold days even if you are staying in the house. Throw a blanket over your shoulders/legs. Wear socks or slippers.
- When you go to sleep, wear long underwear, and use extra covers. Wear a cap or hat.
- Make sure you eat enough food to keep up your weight. (For many this is not a problem:) You might have less fat under your skin. Body fat helps you to stay warm.
- If living alone ask family or friends to check on you this holiday season. If a power outage leaves you without heat, try to stay with a relative or friend.
