Stay Warm This Winter

Whether you’re just stepping outside to get the mail or camping overnight in the elements, staying warm is critical.

Dr. Vicki Whitacre of the Zanesville Muskingum Health Department recommends staying away from cotton clothing, especially when it’s wet out.

"Wool is really good for holding heat as are some polyesters and silk," she said. "Those types of clothing material might be better for hunters or really severe cold weather."

Whitacre said to be sure to bundle up in layers and wear a hat and mittens, which she says are better than gloves.

The same goes for children waiting at the bus stop.

"They need to have hats, gloves, scarves, adequate protection from the wet with either an umbrella or a rain suit," said Whitacre. "Send them in layers so that if it’s warm by afternoon, if it’s warm, they can take off their layers and still keep the teacher happy."

Whitacre says when your body is cold, it automatically works to protect your core. And with that decreased blood supply, it’s important to make sure extremities such as your hands and feet are very warm.