Baltimore man marks Maryland’s first cold death of the winter – CBS Baltimore

BALTIMORE (WJZ) – A middle-aged man who died in Baltimore marks the first death from a cold-related illness in the state this winter, the Maryland Department of Health said Tuesday.

The Department of Health describes the man as between 50 and 60 years old. Details of the man’s cause of death were not immediately released.

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As temperatures drop across the state, Deputy Secretary of Public Health Dr. Jinlene Chan urged Marylanders to do everything they can to prevent cold-related illnesses.

“We also remind everyone to check on neighbors and loved ones when the weather is very cold – especially the elderly,” said Dr. “Older adults are especially susceptible to hypothermia, which occurs when the body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit.”

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In addition to hypothermia, the health department is also warning people about the possibility of frostbite, a cold-related illness that can occur when skin temperatures drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, the agency said. Toes, fingers, ears, cheeks, and the tip of the nose are the body parts most susceptible to freezing.

Cold-related illnesses can be prevented by avoiding too much outdoors in cold weather, as well as by wearing layers of loose, light clothing to protect vulnerable body parts.

The state tracks cold cases and deaths from November to March. Last winter, the state said, 57 people in Maryland died from cold-related illnesses.

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Residents in need of a place to heat are encouraged to contact their local health department or dial 211 for information on locations, operating hours and availability of heating centers.