The state recently recorded its first cold weather-related death for 2025-26.
Baltimore, Md (KM) When the weather gets cold, it’s always important to dress in layers if you are outside, and limit your time out of doors. And take precautions if you work outside, says Dr. Clifford Mitchell,. the Director of the Environmental Health Bureau of the Maryland Department of Health.
“It’s cold out, and it doesn’t have to be that cold to cause problems with your extremities because they get cold the first and fastest: your fingers, your toes,” he says. And always wear a hat and gloves.
Dr. Mitchell says it’s also important to dress in layers, especially if you work outside during the cold weather. “You’ll see a lot of outdoor workers., and the truth is they always are bundled up. They’ve always got multiple layers on. As they’re working, one of the things that happens is they can take off that outer layer, but still preserve the heat,” he says.
When they are outside, Dr, Mitchell says these workers should occasionally come inside and warm up. They should also be aware of early signs of cold-related injuries, such as a little bit of tingling or warmth that can be felt in the fingers, toes, ears and nose. “If you start to get sleepy, especially if you’ve been out in the cold for a long time, or you sort of have that tingling feeling, those are signs to get inside and get rewarmed as quickly as possible,” he says.
If you’re spending most of your time indoors during the cold, Dr Mitchell says be cautions especially how you heat your house. “Also, make sure that you check all those heaters and kerosene heaters to make sure they work properly,” he says.
Some of those hearing sources could cause fire, electrical injures, burns or carbon monoxide poisoning, the Department of Health says.
Recently, the State of Maryland recorded its first cold weather-related death for the 2025-2026 cold weather season. It was a man between the ages of 30 and 40. The death occurred n Frederick County.
By Kevin McManus