Staying safe at home

 

Bogus callers, sometimes known as doorstep fraudsters, are people who trick their way into people's homes with the intention of stealing money or property.

These people often work in teams and they usually target people who are vulnerable. Doorstep fraudsters can be anyone and use many different guises to gain entry to your home, often pretending to be Council officials, workmen from the gas, electricity or water companies, or even the police. Most official companies will send you a letter first and you can ask your gas, water or electricity supplier to give you a unique password for additional security.

If you are in any doubt about the person on your doorstep then remember the following advice:

Always

• use your door chain or door bar when answering the door and install a door viewer and an outside light
• ask to see the caller’s identity card and check it thoroughly, ask the caller to wait on the doorstep while you phone the company to check
• lock the door whilst you go and phone and don’t open the door until you are totally convinced. Anyone who is genuine will not mind you doing this
• ask them to return at an agreed day and time when you have someone with you. Don’t let callers put pressure on you to let them in
• your door, your decision - if in doubt - keep them out
• ring the police if you are suspicious of the caller on 101 or call 999 if you feel in danger

 

Bogus workmen and criminal traders

Bogus workmen and criminal traders may try to carry out unnecessary repairs on your home and can be quite persistent and convincing.

• if someone says you need repairs, tell them you will get some quotes for the work from other companies and get back to them.
• always use a reputable company to carry out repairs or work on your property. You could ask family and friends for recommendations
• if you turn to the internet and social media to find a trader, be aware hat criminal traders may use popular trader matching platforms or social media to advertise their services
• to help with find a trader visit   Buy With Confidence – find a Trading Standards approved business - Lincolnshire County Council
• Never give money to doorstep callers.

Before you consider getting building work done visit this information provided by Citizen Advice 

Contact Trading Standards via the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133 or report a cold caller online here.

 

Most falls happen within the home and there are plenty of measures you can take to keep safe. There are some simple checks you can do yourself. Other issues will require advice from your GP or medical professional.

Some things you can do to prevent falls at home are:

• getting someone to help you to do things that you’re unable to do safely on your own
• using non-slip mats and rugs
• removing clutter, spillages, trailing wires and frayed carpet
• organising your home so that climbing, stretching, and bending is less necessary
• using high-wattage light bulbs in lamps and torches so a clear path can be seen
• wearing well-fitting shoes that support the ankles
• to avoid walking on potentially slippery floors in tights or socks
• to avoid wearing loose-fitting, trailing clothes
• taking care of your feet by trimming toenails regularly or seeing a specialist foot practitioner
• getting your eyes regularly tested

Further information and advice can be found from Get up and go - a guide to staying steady

All healthcare professionals take the risks of falls seriously because of the significant impact they can have on your health. Your GP can carry out some simple balance tests to check if you are at risk of falling. GPs can also refer you to local services who can help you to reduce your risk of falling such as the Strength and Balance exercise programme.

Adaptations to your home can also help in some circumstances. Equipment ranging from simple grab rails to stair lifts can be provided or bought to prevent falls. Several providers are available including those listed in the Providers Directory. Our Equipment and Adaptations page can help to identify where equipment may be bought. Further information about equipment can also be found on the Equipment and Adaptations Page.

 

 

Information and advice is available from Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue to help you prevent fires and to keep you safe in your own home. Advice includes smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, electrical and kitchen safety and escape plans.

A home fire safety check and a safe and well check have been developed to help people stay safe at home. For more information, please visit the Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue website 

Click on this Stay Fire Safe Leaflet from the National Fire chiefs Council to find out how to stay Fire Safe during the cost-of-living crisis.

 

SHERMAN

People who show these characteristics could, potentially, be more at risk of a fire; so it's very important to get them the help they need. A Safe and Well Check includes fire safety, as well as advice to help individuals improve their health and wellbeing.

Smoker

Hoarder

Elderly or lives alone

Reduced mobility, hearing or visual impairments

Mental health issues

Alcohol misuse, drugs/medication dependence

Needs care or support

 

Home Fire Safety Check

This easy-to-follow home fire safety check has been developed through a partnership between the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), Fire Kills and Safelincs. It will take you through your home one room at a time and the simple questions will help you spot fire risks as you go around your home.

The tool will offer tips and advice on the steps you can take to reduce those risks. At the end, you will receive a personalised fire safety action plan to help keep you and your household safe from fire.

This tool is accessible on a mobile device and can be completed by the resident, a relative, carer or a visiting professional in just a few minutes.

Take the online home fire safety check. 

 

The home is the place where accidents are most likely to occur. Everyone should be aware of the dangers in the home so that accidents can be avoided. Information is available to raise awareness of the type of accidents that may occur in the home and what steps you can take to prevent them.

• Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents
• Preventing Accidents for Older People

 

By staying vigilant and always taking a moment to stop, think and check whenever we’re approached, we can help to protect ourselves and each other from fraud. For further advice, knowledge and tools visit Stop! Think Fraud - How to stay safe from scams 

Scams can be devastating. It can affect anyone, but often they can impact older people, or those that are isolated and vulnerable the most.

Scammers will use manipulation and control techniques to get you to part with your cash, including lines such as ‘you have won a lottery, sweepstake or competition’, ‘somebody has left you an inheritance’, 'there is a problem with your account' or 'you might be entitled to a discount or special deal'. All such scams ask victims to pay some money such as an ‘admin fee’, to receive the goods, services or benefits that you will never receive. These scams are often advertised via mail, email or website advert, telephone and even by doorstep cold callers.

Banks will never contact you out of the blue requesting your information, pressuring you in to taking immediate action, or making you feel uncomfortable about your financial situation. If you receive such communication and are unsure, suspicious or feel uncomfortable, you should end the call or messaging immediately and contact your bank using the contact information on their own website or visit them in person if you are able to. 

More information about impersonation fraud can be found here.

Visit Citizen’s Advice for more information on scams. 

To report scams or fraud contact Action Fraud.

 

Police, Fire and Rescue and Medical Emergency call 999

For medical conditions that are not life threatening call or visit one of the following:

• Local Pharmacy - Your local pharmacist can provide confidential, expert advice and treatment for a range of common illnesses and complaints, without you having to go to your GP or other healthcare setting.
• NHS 111 - NHS 111 is a service which makes it easier for you to access NHS services. NHS 111 is available 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year and is free when you telephone 111. You can call 111 when you need medical help fast but it is not a 999 emergency.
• GP Out of Hours service - If you need a doctor out of normal hours, dial NHS 111 to contact the GP Out of Hours service.
• Walk in centre - Lincoln Walk-in Centre, 63 Monks Road. Lincoln LN2 5HP
  Tel: 01522 528153 opening times 8am- 8pm
• Grantham Enhanced Out of Hours Service - Kingfisher Suite, Grantham and District Hospital, Grantham NH31 8DG

For booked appointments with the traditional GP Out of Hours Service, dial NHS 111 6.30pm-8am on weekdays or 24hours a day at weekends and Bank Holidays.

For injuries only (cuts, minor burns, sprains and suspected fractures, bites and stings), walk in without an appointment 6.30pm-11.30pm seven days a week.

 

Minor injury Units

Sleaford Medical Group - 47 Boston Road, Sleaford, Lincolnshire, NG34 7HD. Tel: 01529 419100. Opening times 8am – 8pm weekdays, 8am – 6pm weekends

The City Care Centre - Thorpe Road, Peterborough PE3 6DB. Tel: 01733 293800. Opening times 8am-8pm

Stamford Hospital - Ryhall Road, Stamford, Lincolnshire,PE9 1UA. Tel: 01780 764151. Open 9am- 5pm

Newark minor injury unit and urgent care centre - Newark Hospital, Boundary Road, Newark, Nottinghamshire, NG24 4DE. Tel: 01636 681681

John Coupland Hospital - Ropery Road, Gainsborough, Lincolnshire, DN21 2TJ. Tel: 01427 816 502, open seven days: 8am - 8pm

Johnson Community Hospital - Spalding Road, Pinchbeck, PE11 3DT. Tel: 01775 652000, open seven days: 8am - 6pm

 

Urgent care Centres

Sleaford Medical Group - 47 Boston Road, Sleaford, Lincolnshire, NG34 7HD. Tel: 01529 419100. Opening times 6.30pm – 8pm weekdays, 8am – 6pm weekends

Skegness Hospital - Dorothy Avenue, Skegness, Lincolnshire PE25 2BS. Tel: 01754 613504. Open: 24 hours, seven days a week (including Christmas Day and Bank Holidays)

Louth County Hospital - High Holme Road, Louth, Lincolnshire LN11 0EU. Tel: 01507 600100 ext 1223. Open: 24 hours, seven days a week (including Christmas Day and Bank Holidays)

 

24 hour A&E departments are at Lincoln County Hospital, Pilgrim Hospital in Boston. Peterborough City Hospital also offers a 24 hour A&E department.

Lincoln County Hospital - Greetwell Road, Lincoln, Lincolnshire, LN2 5QY

Pilgrim Hospital Boston - Sibsey Road, Boston, Lincolnshire, PE21 9QS

Peterborough City Hospital - Edith Cavell Campus, Bretton Gate, Peterborough PE3 9GZ

Grantham and District Hospital - 101 Manthorpe Road, Grantham, Lincolnshire, NG31 8DG. 8am - 6.30pm

In a medical emergency call 999

 

Different seasons bring different challenges to staying safe and healthy in adverse temperatures. On this page, you will find some hints and tips to help you stay cool in summer and stay warm in winter.

Citizens Advice South Lincolnshire

As it continues to turn colder, more people will begin to worry about their energy bills. The cost-of-living crisis is squeezing household incomes tighter than ever and energy is a growing concern.  At Citizens Advice South Lincolnshire, we can offer energy advice.  Our Adviser can help with energy savings tips, ensuring people are getting all the help they need from their supplier and identifying any grants or available support.  'To refer someone for an energy advice appointment, please complete the link below

https://www.citizensadvicesouthlincs.org.uk/energy-referral-form/​

This is subject to adviser availability. We will keep you updated if demand exceeds resource

Keeping warm in winter

Staying warm in winter is really important in order to prevent colds, flus, and more serious health conditions. If you are over 65, have a long term health condition, or are disabled you are much more vulnerable to cold-related illnesses.

There are many ways you can keep yourself healthy and warm in winter. Some ways include:

• keeping your home at 18C
• wear warm clothes, lots of thin layers made from cotton, wool or fleecy fibres
• staying active, try not to sit still for more than an hour or so
• if you have heart or breathing problems, stay inside during a cold period as much as possible
• having hot meals and drinks regularly throughout the day
• keeping basic food items in your cupboard or freezer for when it is too cold to go outside
• order groceries online or use a Meals on Wheels service
• using either a hot water bottle or electric blanket (not both) to keep you warm in bed
• getting your heating system and electric blankets serviced to ensure they are running safely and efficiently
• visit your GP and ask about cold and flu medication or vaccines

Staying cool in summer

Keeping cool in summer is really important to prevent dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. If you are over 75, have a long term or serious health condition, have a mobility problem or are taking medication which affects your body’s temperature control, you are more vulnerable.

There are many ways you can keep cool and comfortable in hot weather. These are some ways you can reduce risks to your health and stay cool:

• Avoid being in the sun between 11am and 3pm
• Wear loose, cool clothing and a lightweight hat, such as a straw hat, if you go outdoors
• Have cool baths or showers, and splash yourself with cool water throughout the day
• If you are at home, spend the hottest part of the day in the coolest part of your home
• Shut windows and close shades when it’s hotter. If it’s cooler or breezy then you can open the window for ventilation
• Use light coloured curtains and keep them closed. Metallic blinds or dark curtains can make the room hotter
• Turn off appliances you don’t need or aren’t using
• Keep cooking to a minimum and prepare cold foods
• Plan ahead to make sure you have enough supplies of food, drink, medication etc.
• Drink cold water or fruit juice regularly, and avoid tea, coffee and alcohol

Always seek medical help if you are worried that someone has dehydration, heat exhaustion, or heatstroke.

Save money on Energy

A Winter Fuel Payment is available to help you pay your heating bills if you were born on or before 5th May 1953 (this date changes every year).

A Cold Weather Payment may be available to you if you are in receipt of certain benefits. You will get £25 each time your local temperature is either recorded or forecast to be an average of 0C or below over seven consecutive days.

Under the Warm Homes Discount Scheme you could get £150 off your electricity bill for the forthcoming winter if you are on a low income, you receive certain means-tested benefits and your energy supplier is part of the scheme.  But you need to apply now! Check with your supplier as soon as possible as the number of discounts they offer are limited and issued on a first come, first served basis. Once they are gone, the scheme closes.  The scheme opened on Monday 16th October 2023, and many energy suppliers are already accepting a high number of applications. Don’t miss out! To check if your supplier offers the Warm Homes Discount for the 2023/24 scheme visit www.gov.uk/the-warm-home-discount-scheme.  Alternatively telephone your supplier. If you receive the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit you don’t need to do anything as the discount will be automatically applied to your bill. The Warm Homes Discount scheme is a Government scheme that is applied as a one-off discount on your electricity bill.

The Energy Saving Trust has advice on how to reduce your energy bills. It also has information about current UK grants and schemes.

By switching your energy supplier you can save money. Ofgem has a list of accredited energy comparison sites. This means that all the prices you find will be calculated and displayed in a fair and unbiased way.

 

Resources for people struggling to pay their energy bills. 

Home | Fuel Bank Foundation

Winter Fuel Payment

Winter Fuel Payment helps older people with their heating bills - claim form, how much you get, eligibility. The deadline to make a claim for winter 2021 to 2022 is 31 March 2022.

Grants and benefits to help you pay your energy bills - Citizens Advice

Grants, benefits and other support, including Warm Home Discount, Winter Fuel Payment and Cold Weather Payment.

Chancellor unveils up to £350 in support per household to help mitigate rocketing energy prices (moneysavingexpert.com)

 

Winter is here - be prepared 

 

Carbon monoxide can be produced when poorly maintained, incorrectly fitted or badly repaired appliances do not burn gas completely.

Look out for the following signs that could indicate that a gas appliance is not working correctly, and CO may be present in the house:

• Floppy yellow or orange flame on your gas hob, rather than a crisp blue flame

• Dark, sooty staining on or around gas appliances

• Pilot lights that frequently blow out
• Increased condensation inside window

Find out how to protect yourself in your home here. 

 

Register your appliances to get free safety updates. 

Just taking a few minutes to register your appliances at registermyappliance.org.uk, means that you could access free safety repairs if they were ever needed, potentially preventing fires and accidents in the home.

For further information on how to do this and the benefits visit the Lincolnshire County Council website. 

 

The Met Office will sometimes issue severe weather warnings, indicating varying levels of disruption and danger to communities.

The following telephone lines may be helpful if required:

Reporting:

Fallen trees - call 101

Fallen power cables - call 105

Issues with gas - call 0800 111 999

Environment agency - call 0345 988 1188

 

Information and advice for your local community can be found on the following websites:

Flooding in North Lincolnshire 

Flooding in North East Lincolnshire 

Check for flooding in Lincolnshire 

Flooding in Lincoln

Flooding in North Kesteven 

Flooding in South Kesteven

Flooding in South Holland 

Flooding in Boston 

Flooding in East Lindsey

Flooding in West Lindsey

 

The Met Office have a flood warnings guide, information on floods and flooding and what to do in a flood. 

 

The Lincolnshire Resilience Forum have information on flooding and severe weather.