Errr, if the lady can't afford to buy a thermometer (which I think would be a high priority item, especially a minimum/maximum one) then she can't afford to buy much of anything.

I'm guessing that youre dwelling unit is a single floor unit flat rather than a townhouse unit, surrounded on each side by other units that are heated.

I would certainly advise keeping the gas fireplace on as long as possible.

There must be some emergency service agencies, charity or otherwise, that might be taped for help. That would require enough energy to focus on them and follow through on their application procedures. That may not be easy if you're working during the day and hunkered down for the rest of the time.

Keep us posted.

So far I've resisted dredging up appropriate topical songs, but I'm tempted to post some from my vast collection.

Warm regards,
Landlady's Daughter