A major drive to help Glasgow's elderly population ward off the ravages of hypothermia will be launched in the City Chambers tomorrow (Wednesday, 27 November).

Around 100,000 booklets entitled ‘Are you cold in your own home?' are being circulated throughout the city so that senior citizens receive clear and practical advice on what they can do to keep warm this winter. It is intended that every elderly person in Glasgow will receive a copy of the guide, which has been produced in conjunction with Glasgow City Council, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and the West of Scotland Seniors Forum.

Bailie Ellen Hurcombe, Glasgow City Council's Spokesperson for Senior Issues, will attend the launch of the booklet along with F Martin Brickley, Chairperson of the West of Scotland Seniors Forum.

Research has found that Glasgow pensioners are at most risk from death from hypothermia in Scotland and Bailie Hurcombe says it's vital to raise awareness with the depths of winters on the way.

She said: "Hypothermia is a silent killer in the home and it is one we can do so much to fight against. There is a great deal of misunderstanding surrounding the issue and we have to do everything we can to put the record straight.

"A huge range of benefits and services exist to help combat the cold and this booklet will help pinpoint them for senior people."

WSSF Chairperson, F Martin Brickley added: "The booklets are being distributed everywhere from doctors' surgeries, libraries, day care centres and bingo halls - anywhere where pensioners may go. The booklet gives simple and practical advice and will show older people how they can remain safe and warm over the winter months."

Support is also available through a freephone hotline,* 0800 107 2609*. It is staffed by twenty volunteers from the senior community who can give advice and guidance on a range of related issues.

In Glasgow 1 in 36 over 65's die from hypothermia during winter against 1 in 44 in Aberdeen and 1 in 48 in Edinburgh and this despite Glasgow being relatively warmer. Although often not cited as the direct cause of death, hypothermia lies at the source of a huge number of fatalities during winter - even when it is contracted in its mildest form.

Those suffering from respiratory of cardio-vascular ailments can be at particular risk as exposure to the cold can lead to heart attacks and strokes as well as causing complications in conditions such as diabetes. Health experts say that the elderly must be vigilant over allowing their body temperature to drop.

Dr Gillian Penrice, Consultant in Public Health Medicine, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said: "These booklets provide crucial and potentially life saving advice for our senior citizens at this time of year. Hypothermia slowly creeps up on people, particularly if they are in frail health and susceptible to drops in temperature."