CHRISTMAS is over but the cold Weather is still with us and elderly people can have a bit of winter warmth by following a few simple rules.

Age Concern Preston and South Ribble has put forward the message that Cold Can Kill in a booklet containing advice and emergency hotline numbers.

Much of the information mirrors that given out by the Department of Health which has also published details in a magazine called Keep Warm, Keep Well.

Age Concern is aware that many people - particularly the elderly - struggle to pay bills, especially over the long winter months. They encourage you to get in touch with your gas or electricity company to discuss methods of payments, as sometimes they'll let you spread the cost over 12 months.

As a pensioner you may also be eligible for a Community Care Grant, loan or Cold Weather Payment that you are not currently getting.

Age Concern also believe a lot can be done to avoid the dangers of hypothermia and it urges people to be on the look out for symptoms, such as drowsiness, slow response and slurred speech.

The charity is also appealing to people to look out for elderly neighbours who may have got themselves in trouble over the winter months.

Tell-tale signs include milk not taken inside until late in the day, newspapers stuck in the letterbox, curtains drawn during the day and so on.

But it need not get to that stage. Age Concern believes that by keeping properly warm and active an elderly person can help themselves. Little actions like moving your bed into a warm room, checking heating appliances, eliminating draughts and frequent hot meals and drinks during the day can all help.

For more information or a booklet call the Winter Warmth Line on freephone 0800-289404 or Age Concern on 01772 253079.

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