The campaign, which launched today (Tuesday 1st October) to coincide with International Older Person’s Day will run until March 2025. The FREE service is however available to all Cleveland residents who may need extra support to stay warm throughout winter, with no restrictions on age.
Now in its 16th year, Stay Safe and Warm continues to provide a vital lifeline to people who may struggle to keep warm during the colder winter months. In the 2023/2024 campaign, the Brigade supported 391 households throughout the winter which included 288 under 16s and 590 adults.
With the support of its Council partners across Hartlepool, Middlesbrough and Stockton-on-Tees they are committed to ensuring that help is available for those residents that need it most.
Helen Winskill, Commissioned Services Manager at Cleveland Fire Brigade said: “With factors such as cuts to winter fuel payments and rising energy costs, many of our residents will be at greater risk now more than ever during the winter months, we’re urging those people to reach out to us if they need help. Whether it’s a temporary issue like a boiler breakdown or you simply can’t afford to put the heating on, we’re here to help our communities stay warm.
“We’d also encourage people to look out for their neighbours, friends, and loved ones who may be at risk during this time of the year, reminding them that support is available. While older adults are especially vulnerable to the cold, many families and those with young children also face challenges in heating their homes too.”
Councillor Brenda Harrison, Leader of Hartlepool Borough Council, said: “The Stay Safe and Warm initiative has helped many people since it began 16 years ago and the Council continues to be a steadfast supporter of it and of the excellent work that it does.”
Middlesbrough Mayor Chris Cooke said: “Stay Safe and Warm has done an excellent job in our area for 16 years now. “It concentrates on practical things to support people during the colder months and we’re proud to support it.
“I know the campaign will make a real difference to many people around Middlesbrough this winter.”
Lee Tweddell, Stockon-on-Tees Borough Council’s Principal Environment Officer, said: “With winter on the way, colder temperatures can have a serious impact on your health.
“Our ‘Warm Homes Healthy People’ scheme supports Stay Safe and Warm and annually we help hundreds of residents stay warm with a range of support.
“We look forward to working in partnership with Cleveland Fire Brigade once again for another successful campaign.”
A range of equipment will be available to suit the resident(s) depending on what they require following a free home assessment.
To help keep you safe and stay warmer this winter, please follow some of the advice below:
- Move furniture away from radiators to allow heat to circulate
- Curtains should be thick or lined and closed at dusk to keep heat in
- Use heating controls to help manage room temperatures and times
- Turning the room thermostat down by 1°C can save 10% off your bill
- Room temperatures should be set between 18°C and 21°C (64°F and 70°F)
- Remember a room stays warm for 45 minutes after you switch off the heating
- Setting your hot water tank thermostat to 60°C (140°F)
- Place aluminum foil behind the radiators to reflect heat back into the room
- Draught proof windows and exterior doors with brush or PVC seals
To contact a member of the Stay Safe and Warm team please phone: 01429 874063 or for more information visit: https://www.clevelandfire.gov.uk/community/ssaw/
