Hypothermia can affect persons of any age but can be particularly severe on babies because of their small size an inability to shiver to counter act the cold and to persons older than 65. The older folks usually have a less active life style and a slower metabolism contributing to the increased risk of Hypothermia.

Dressing properly before venturing out in cold weather is one good way to protect against Hypothermia. According to Herrera,"Wearing a hat, a scarf covering a face and neck, a jackeT with elastic to keep cold air from blowing into the sleeves, mittens are better than gloves, a water resistant coat and shoes. It is practical to dress in multiple layers so that some clothing can be removed if you become warm. It is better to have the extra clothing and not need it than to need it and not have it."

Wearing warm leg coverings and heavy socks or two pair of light weight socks will help to keep your feet warm. If your clothing becomes wet from play or work, it is important that you change out of those clothes as soon as possible.

Some easy things you can do to prevent the early symptoms of hypothermia are to move indoors or into a warm vehicle periodically. If available you also can drink hot drinks such as tea or hot cocoa. One should never use alcohol while cold since that has a tendency to decrease your body temperature.

Last winter there were 15 deaths due to persons not being protected from hypothermia. Recently the first death due to hypothermia in the state of Maryland this winter was recorded in Frederick City involving a 65 year old male.