With summer coming to an end here in the northern hemisphere, it’s time to start planning ahead for the winter season. There are plenty of positives about colder weather, from enjoying steaming mugs of hot cocoa to curling up in front of a roaring fire. However, it’s also important that we take the necessary steps to stay safe and warm as the temperature drops. Thankfully there are lots of steps we can take to help keep our homes cozy for when we’re inside and ourselves safe when we’re outside. Here are some of our top tips.
Dress appropriately
Whenever you leave the house during cold weather, it’s important that you wrap up warm. That means wearing plenty of layers, as well as a hat, gloves, and scarf. This helps you to regulate your body temperature more easily and stay comfortable. Loose layers are preferable to tight ones because it’s the warm air trapped between them that is actually what keeps you nice and toasty. Waterproofs are also a great idea when it’s snowy, plus a windproof outer layer if it’s windy. Finally, don’t forget to wear sunscreen if you’re spending time out in the snow when it’s sunny.
Know how to deal with snow
If you’re not used to heavy snow, it can be tricky to know exactly how to handle it. It’s worth investing in snow tires for safe driving in snowy or icy conditions, as well as shoes with good grip for times when you have to walk. It’s also important to keep your driveway and the path to your front door clear – snow blowers can be a big help here and a convenient alternative to shovelling. Whether walking or driving, be sure to leave plenty of extra time for your journey and take it slow.
Invest in your home heating
Keeping your house well heated during the winter months is vital for both health and comfort. If your central heating system is old, then it might be worth having it upgraded, or alternatively, you could have some insulation installed in your attic or walls to make your home more energy-efficient. This costs some money upfront but can result in savings over time by reducing your bills. It’s also worth checking whether you have an issue with drafts – often, these can be fixed fairly simply by sealing up gaps, putting draft excluders at the bottom of doors, and fitting keyhole covers.
Decorate for maximum coziness
There are plenty of small changes we can make in the way we decorate our homes that will result in a warmer and more cozy feel. For instance, try adding a soft rug to a hardwood floor or a fluffy blanket to the sofa. Heavy curtains are great at keeping the heat in, while the flickering glow of candles is sure to add a comforting vibe to a room (you can always use LED ones if you’re worried about the fire risk). Avoid putting big furniture items in front of radiators as this can prevent the heat from circulating – conversely, adding a shelf above a radiator can help deflect the heat into the room rather than it rising to the ceiling.