Preparing for winter: your essential October checks

Summer is now behind us and autumn is changing the landscape from green to gold. You may have already heard people discussing a change in weather as they begin preparing for winter, but what does this actually entail?

Our helpful tips will allow you to put plans in place to better manage the winter months.

Make sure your vehicle is road-safe

Making sure that your vehicle has the correct tax, insurance, and valid MOT isn’t always enough when frost and ice arrive. You may need to carry out additional checks for both safety and comfort when driving.

Tyres – check your tyres regularly to ensure there are no pressure issues, cuts, bulges, or too much wear. You may find it useful to switch to winter tyres with better grip, especially if you live in a more rural location.
Heating – your car should be able to keep you warm and defrost your windscreen.
Emergency equipment – while you should carry emergency supplies all year round, it is imperative that you do so in the winter months. A high-viz jacket, blanket, drink, snack, and portable charger can really come in handy if you were to break down.
Deicing equipment – during particularly frigid weather, you may find your car ices over quite quickly. Keep a scraper and de-icing spray in your vehicle to assist you. Remember to never drive without clear visibility. Ensure all ice is removed and that your windows aren’t fogged before setting off.

Make sure your boiler has been serviced

Boiler repair can be expensive, and potentially see you without heating or hot water for days. Companies may also charge extra for emergency call-outs, and be extremely busy during the winter months.

Think about getting your boiler serviced now so that, if there are problems, these can be rectified while the weather is still quite mild.

Alongside this, it can also be a good idea to check each of your radiators for any leaks, as well as to bleed them if necessary.

You can also think about preparing for winter by setting your heating and hot water to come on at set times, such as when you wake up, are about to return from work, or before you want to shower in the evening. This can help you to save money by ensuring they are dormant when not required. Some of the more modern thermostats may also allow you to adjust the controls remotely, which could be helpful for those with mobility problems, as well as people who work varied shifts.

Check your fire alarms while preparing for winter

Your fire alarms should be tested on a weekly basis all year round. These could prove to be life-saving, especially if the fire occurs during the night when inhabitants are asleep.

This is important when preparing for winter as many homes have open fires or woodburners that get used more during the colder months. Forgetting to put these out, or not putting them out properly, can have devastating and fatal results.

For peace of mind, fire alarm checks can be undertaken during your timed visits. The putting out of any fires, including candles, can also be conducted.

All households should get into the habit of regularly testing alarms, as well as checking that any flames are properly extinguished.

Register for your flu vaccination

The flu vaccination period for 2025 started on 1st October. You may be eligible for a free vaccination from your GP, local pharmacy, or even workplace if you meet the criteria. The majority of schools may also be inviting parents to consent to their child receiving the nasal spray flu vaccine.

Outside of this, many pharmacies, including those located within supermarkets, do allow members of the public to pay for a vaccination. The cost to do so may be around £15.

We encourage all our staff to register for their vaccination so they are better protected. Likewise, we may also prompt clients and next of kin to register for their vaccinations. This can be especially important for those who are vulnerable or immuno-compromised. Individuals who do not have mental capacity may still be able to receive their flu vaccination, based on previous consent and best interests.

Stock up on essentials

Whether due to adverse weather or illness, there may be times that you cannot get out to the shops. Depending on the day, especially as we get closer to Christmas, there is also the potential that you may not be able to get a food shop delivered.

This aspect of planning for winter can be especially important for your overall wellbeing. Stock up on some of the essentials now so that you don’t get caught short.

Toilet paper – while we don’t expect people to get as carried away over toilet paper as they did during the 2020 pandemic, it can still be a good idea to keep a few rolls aside, especially if you end up facing a winter sickness bug!
Tinned foods – beans, spaghetti, vegetables, and even fruits can be purchased in tins, extending their shelf life dramatically. Keeping these in your pantry can allow you to make some quick easy meals. While you may not want to make these your go-to for regular meals, as fresh food is normally much better for you, they can be useful when you are in a bind.
Fill up the freezer – frozen food can also be helpful. This can allow you to get the nutrients you need even if you can’t get down to the shops. Choose items that will last as long as possible, and that you’ll enjoy. You can also batch cook meals beforehand and store for later use. Make sure all items are properly sealed to avoid freezer burn.
Toiletries – both personal hygiene and cleaning products can be stored until needed. It is especially important that you’re able to keep your home clean and reduce the risk of germs and bacteria causing illness.

Help with preparing for winter

Absolute can help you with preparing for winter during your visits. Whether you want support making sure you have everything you need, or to know that your home is ready for the cold, we are there for you. Discuss your needs and concerns with one of our Care Co-ordinators today.