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November 21, 2018 by WCBC Radio
The Department of Health and the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner announced today the first death related to hypothermia in Maryland this winter. The death occurred in Garrett County and was an adult male over 65 years old. There were 61 cold-related deaths in Maryland during the 2017-2018 winter weather season.
"Temperatures are expected to drop across Maryland this Thanksgiving weekend," said Fran Phillips, Under Secretary of Public Health for the Maryland Department of Health. "If you have to go out, avoid cold-related illnesses, such as hypothermia, wearing diapers and protecting your nose, ears, toes and fingers. If you are leaving the city for the holiday weekend, bring a cold weather emergency car kit including blankets, warm clothing, an ice scraper, food and water. "
From November to March, the Ministry of Health monitors temperature conditions and the incidence of cold-related illness and death. Weekly reports are available online at https://goo.gl/UHaaX8. The site also includes the state's extreme cold emergency plan and fact sheets on cold-related health issues, carbon monoxide, driving tips for extreme cold weather, and early warning signs. 'a heart attack. Datasheets are available in English and eight other languages.
Hypothermia, frostbite, carbon monoxide poisoning and injury from heat sources are some of the dangers associated with winter conditions. Hypothermia occurs when body temperature falls below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Frostbite is the freezing and subsequent destruction of body tissue that may occur whenever the skin temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. The parts of the body most likely to freeze are toes, fingers, ears, cheeks and the tip of the nose. They must be covered in very cold weather. Individuals should also wear several layers of loose and light clothing, as well as waterproof boots or solid shoes to keep their feet warm and dry.
Carbon monoxide problems are another common winter hazard. This colorless and odorless gas is produced by faulty gas furnaces, small gas engines, furnaces, generators, lanterns and gas stoves, or by burning coal and wood. Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause serious illness and death. Marylanders are urged to install carbon monoxide detectors at home. Heating sources can also cause fires, electrical injuries and burns if they are not properly installed, used or maintained. Never use your oven to heat your home.
Residents of Maryland needing housing or energy assistance to warm up this winter should call 211 to find out if there are resources available. For more information on emergency preparedness, visit https://goo.gl/9aniHw.
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