Home Safety

Rain, ice or extreme heat can increase the risk of falls. Here’s how to stay safe and steady whatever the weather brings.

This page gives you simple, practical ways to stay safe and steady all year round, whatever the forecast. No matter what the weather looks like, here are some general tips for staying safe in all seasons and types of weather.

• Keep a weather eye: Check the forecast before heading out. Delay errands or ask for help if conditions are poor.
• Stay visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking in low light or poor visibility.
• Keep emergency contacts nearby: Carry a mobile phone or pendant alarm if you go out alone.
• Think ahead: In extreme conditions, stock up on essentials or consider meal deliveries.

Cold Weather and Icy Conditions

Cold and icy conditions can make pavements slippery and increase the risk of falls, especially early in the morning or after dark.

• Footwear matters: Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes or boots with a good grip.
• Plan ahead: Wait until paths have been gritted or cleared if possible. Carry a mobile phone or tell someone when you’re heading out.
• Take small steps: Walk slowly and carefully, especially on uneven ground, wet leaves or frosty surfaces.
• Use walking aids if needed: Make sure any walking sticks or frames (remove) have ferrules (rubber ends) in good condition — winter-specific tips can improve grip. Make sure any outdoor walking aids are in good condition with functioning brakes
• Dress in warm layers: Cold muscles and joints are more likely to stiffen. Gloves, scarves and thermal socks can help maintain mobility.
• Clear your own paths: Ask a neighbour or local service to help grit or clear garden paths and driveways.

Wet Weather and Autumn Hazards

Rain, mud and wet leaves increase the chance of slipping both outdoors and indoors — especially near doorways.

• Wipe wet shoes: Keep a mat by the door to dry footwear before walking through the house.
• Use an umbrella or hood: It helps keep your hands free and avoids rushing.
• Check lighting: Rainy days can make indoor spaces darker. Turn on hallway lights or install night lights near stairs.
• Be cautious indoors: - Wet leaves and water brought in on shoes can make floors slippery, especially near entranceways. Mop up quickly and remove leaves as needed.

Hot Weather and Summer Risks

Warmer weather can cause dizziness, dehydration and fatigue, increasing the risk of unsteadiness and falls.

• Stay hydrated: Aim to drink 6–8 glasses of water a day. Don’t wait to feel thirsty.
• Keep cool indoors: Close curtains during the hottest part of the day, wear loose clothing, and avoid heavy activity between 11am and 3pm.
• Pace yourself outdoors: If gardening or walking, take breaks and carry water. Use shady paths and avoid being out in extreme heat.
• Watch for light-headedness: Sit down if you feel dizzy or faint. Speak to your GP if you’re concerned.
• Wear sunglasses to address problems with glare caused by bright sunlight. Remember, low-set winter sun reflecting on ice and snow can cause problems with glare too.

Calling for Assistance

If you ever fall or need help, it’s important to have a simple way to call for assistance - especially if you live alone.

Carry a mobile phone or pendant alarm if you go out alone. (Some pendant alarms are likely to only work very locally to your home; please check the range with your provider)

If you're unsure what's right for you, local social care services or home adaptation teams can help you find safe, reliable options.

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Self-funding walkers Information Sheet

This sheet provides some useful information regarding walkers that you can use both inside and
outside of your home.

Download Information (PDF)

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Find local help and support

If you need advice, practical help, equipment, home support, care services or local activities and exercise classes, visit Help and Contacts to find services and support available in your area.

Find local support

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Useful Local Links

Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust
Age UK Milton Keynes
Community Alarm Service, Milton Keynes City Council
Handy Person Service from Age UK MK- handyperson@ageukmiltonkeynes.org.uk / 01908 550700
Medequip - blmk@medequip-uk.com / 03330917763

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Milton Keynes Falls Service - Staying Steady

Staying Steady Milton Keynes offers specialist support to individuals, mainly aged over 65 years, who have fallen or are at risk of falling. We work with an individual and their carer to make decisions about the best way to reduce the risk of the person falling, raise awareness of risk factors for falling and make any necessary changes to their home to prevent falls.

The service is provided to any person (primarily those aged over 65 years of age) registered with a Milton Keynes Clinical Commissioning Group general practitioner (GP) who has fallen or is at risk of falling.

Tel: 01908725622 
Email: fallsprevention.service@nhs.net
Website: Visit website 

Download Referral Form

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Further information and resources

You may also find the following organisations and resources useful for more information, advice and support related to this topic.

Stay well this winter - NHS
How to cope in hot weather - NHS
Keeping warm and well in winter - Age UK
How to keep cool in hot weather - Age UK
Advice for vulnerable groups during a heatwave - Red Cross

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