Keeping warmth in without heating
Machine translation from Dutch, not yet checked by a clinician.
When the heating fails, simple measures are effective at keeping warmth inside the house.
What to do
• Close all doors and windows and block draughts with clothing or towels
• Gather the whole household in one small room
• Use sleeping bags, blankets and winter clothing
• Burning candles give limited warmth — use them safely (see fire safety)
• Wear several layers of clothing indoors, including socks and a hat
Do not do
• Do not use a gas oven or barbecue indoors — risk of CO poisoning
• Do not burn untreated wood indoors without an open fireplace
Warning signs
• Signs of carbon monoxide poisoning: headache, nausea, dizziness — leave the building immediately
Get help if
• The indoor temperature drops below 10°C with vulnerable residents present
• Vulnerable people (old, ill, young) cannot stay warm
Why this matters
Cold homes are dangerous for older people, babies and people with heart or lung problems. CO poisoning from gas appliances indoors is deadly.
Source: RIVM Winterrisico Richtlijnen · reviewed 2025-01-01