(NAPSI)—There’s good news for older adults concerned about increasing energy costs, particularly during colder months.

The Eldercare Locator has produced a free brochure full of tips on preparing a home for winter weather and saving money on energy costs.

Energy Tips

For those living independently, maintaining their health and safety this winter is imperative. The brochure, “Winter Warmth and Safety: Home Energy Tips for Older Adults,” provides valuable information to older adults, their families or caregivers on how to best deal with cold weather challenges.

Some of the tips include:

• Seal air leaks and insulate windows around the home.

• Install a programmable thermostat to make the home more energy efficient.

• Insulate water pipes to avoid freezing and bursting.

• Take advantage of local heating assistance funds and utility no-cutoff programs.

• Do not use your stove or oven to heat your home. Keep batteries and battery-powered flashlights available and, when needed, use flashlights instead of candles.

• Check to make sure that electrical cords on space heaters are not damaged and do not pose a tripping hazard.

• Make sure that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and working properly.

A Winter Emergency Plan

Extreme weather conditions can sometimes require emergency action. Here are some suggestions on how to prepare for winter emergencies:

• Identify temporary living arrangements in case you are unable to stay in your own home and have a plan for getting there.

• Keep in touch with family and friends. Ask someone to check on you daily—especially if you live alone.

• Plan for your medical needs. Have extra medications on hand or identify a pharmacy that will deliver them to you.

• If you or a loved one in your home has medical equipment, be sure you know how to maintain it or move it in an emergency.

• Share emergency contact information ahead of time with everyone who would need it.

Free Brochure

For a free copy of the brochure, call the Eldercare Locator at (800) 677-1116 or download it at www.eldercare.gov. The Eldercare Locator is a public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging, administered by the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging.

 

On the Net:North American Precis Syndicate, Inc.(NAPSI)