Baltimore, MD – With winter temperatures plunging across Maryland, the state’s Department of Health is urging residents to take proactive measures to guard against cold-related illnesses such as hypothermia and frostbite.
“Marylanders are urged to take precautions to limit their exposure to cold,” stated Dr. Nilesh Kalyanaraman, Deputy Secretary for Public Health Services. “If you must go outside, wear multiple layers. If you need access to a shelter or warming center, contact your local health department. Remember to also check on elderly neighbors and relatives who may be more vulnerable to the cold.”
From November to March, the Maryland Department of Health (MDH) monitors weather conditions, cold-related illnesses, and fatalities across the state. The 2023-2024 winter season saw 72 deaths attributed to cold-related conditions.
Understanding Cold-Related Illnesses
Hypothermia occurs when the body’s temperature dips below 95 degrees Fahrenheit, potentially leading to confusion, drowsiness, or death if untreated. Frostbite, the freezing of body tissue, can damage extremities such as fingers, toes, ears, and the nose when exposed to temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
Cold Weather Safety Tips
To reduce the risk of illness and injury during the colder months, the MDH recommends the following:
- Dress in Layers: Multiple layers of lightweight, loose-fitting clothing provide insulation by trapping air between them.
- Protect Your Head and Face: Cover your head with a hat, wrap a scarf around your mouth, and protect your ears and face from exposure to the cold.
- Choose Mittens Over Gloves: Keeping fingers close together inside mittens helps retain warmth better than gloves.
- Wear Warm Footwear: Heavy socks or double layers of lightweight socks, paired with waterproof boots, help keep feet dry and warm.
Additional Precautions
Residents are advised to be vigilant about common winter hazards, such as carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and fires caused by heating devices. CO is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause severe illness or death, often produced by improperly maintained gas furnaces, generators, and stoves.
The MDH suggests placing CO detectors and smoke alarms on every level of your home, especially near bedrooms. Local fire departments often provide assistance with smoke detector installation.
Preparing for Emergencies
Residents are encouraged to review their family emergency communication plans and ensure their supply kits are fully stocked. Home kits should include unexpired food, medical supplies, and batteries, while vehicle kits should have blankets, water, flashlights, gloves, and a snow shovel.
Warming Center Access
For those seeking relief from the cold, warming centers are available statewide. Residents can find information about locations and accommodations by contacting their local health department or dialing 2-1-1.
Further resources on cold-weather safety, including tips on heating homes, driving in winter conditions, and illness prevention, are accessible through the MDH’s Office of Preparedness and Response at health.maryland.gov/preparedness/Pages/Resources_cold.aspx.
