OLDER people are being urged to prepare themselves for winter before the temperature drops any lower.

Thousands are not claiming the benefits they are entitled to and many are not aware how to keep themselves warm during the cold months.

British Gas and Help the Aged have joined forces in a bid to avoid the thousands of preventable deaths which are attributed to cold weather every year.

In the South West alone, latest figures have revealed there are up to 15,000 excess winter deaths per year.

Free Winter Warm Up packs are now available offering information, advice, thermometers and a single telephone number for claiming benefits.

Anyone who wishes to order a pack can do so by calling 0870 7700 446.

And a spokesman for the charity stressed that benefits are a right, not a handout.

"It is vital that people take full advantage of all the help that is available to them because it could save their lives."

In North Dorset, a mailing campaign is underway to increase awareness of the grants available for loft and cavity wall insulation.

The district council has linked up with the national Heat Project to help reduce fuel bills. Anyone who requires more information should call 0800 093 4050.

Help the Aged has issued the following advice:

  • Have regular hot meals and hot drinks to provide warmth and energy.
  • Keep moving - activity, such as housework, keeps the circulation going.
  • Wear warm clothes, ideally several layers of thin clothing, indoors and out.
  • Keep the temperature between 21 and 24 degrees C.
  • Wear warm clothing at night.
  • Insulate your home - it will keep you warm and save you money.
  • Get a flu jab every year.
  • Sleep with your windows closed.
  • Claim all the benefits and grants you are entitled to.