Cold weather can mean high heating bills, which may be a serious problem for a person on a low or fixed income.
Possible Action
Hazard
light a fire in the home
fire, burns, smoke inhalation
use a propane heater or other unsafe gas heater
carbon monoxide poisoning, fire
use an electric heater
fire from contact with element, overload of wiring, electric shock
paying heating bill rather than buying medications
worsening of comorbid conditions
paying heating bill rather than buying food
malnutrition
reducing room temperature
worsening of comorbid conditions, risk of pneumonia or other infection
losing heat entirely
frozen pipes, hypothermia
Steps to reduce the risk:
(1) insulate the home as much as possible
(2) seal leaks around windows and doors
(3) lower thermostat when away
(4) enroll in a budget billing program
(5) seek economic assistance
(6) close off unused rooms (must not have water pipes)
(7) dress warmly
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Specialty: Emergency Medicine, Critical Care
ICD-10: ,
