Two Deaths Blamed on Hypothermia

Two people have died from hypothermia-related complications in Baltimore since the colder weather kicked in this fall, Maryland's Medical Examiner Office said Thursday.

One victim, a Prince George's County man, died Oct. 18. The second victim, from Anne Arundel County, died Oct. 19. Their ages and identities were not released.

A total of 38 Marylanders died of hypothermia-related problems in the 2007-2008 cold weather season, according to the medical examiner's office.

Maryland's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene says 600 Americans die each year from hypothermia, which sets in when the body temperature drops below 95ºF. Here are the department's tips on preventing frostbite and hypothermia as the winter weather sets in:

• Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect lungs from direct, extremely cold air. Cover your ears and lower part of your face.
• Wear mittens rather than fingered gloves. The close contact of fingers helps to keep your hands warm.
• Wear warm leg coverings and heavy socks, or two pairs of lightweight socks.
• Wear waterproof boots or sturdy shoes to keep your feet warm and dry.

Leave Comments