Cold weather advice from the Douglas County Health Department

By Cheril Lee

Omaha, NE – Winter is in full swing in Nebraska and that can mean unpredictable weather in terms of both temperatures and precipitation.

Dr. Adi Pour, Douglas County Health Director, wants to remind everyone that cold weather can be dangerous. She says it is important to check on elderly neighbors. And when the temperature drops, Dr. Pour says it's crucial to make sure you're prepared. She says you need to, "be prepared in your car that you have a blanket because you never know when you might get stranded. And then, of course, dress appropriately if the weather is cold and that means you dress in layers, in loose fitting clothing. Make a special effort to protect your ears, your face and your hands. And wear a hat because 50% of our body heat is lost through our heads."

Waterproof boots and insulated socks are also a good idea when it is snowy or wet outside. Dr. Pour also reminds people not to use a stove to heat a home and never leave a fireplace or candles unattended.

For more information on how to avoid hypothermia and frostbite, the web site is douglascountyhealth.com.