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December 6, 2023

Media Contact:
Chase Cook, Acting Director, Office of Communications, 410-767-8649

Maryland Department of Health reports first cold-related illness death of the 2023-2024 winter weather season

Baltimore, MD – The Maryland Department of Health today reported the first cold-related illness death in Maryland for the 2023-2024 winter weather season. The deceased individual is an adult male in the 70-80 age range. The death occurred in Baltimore County.

To prevent the onset of cold-related illness, including frostbite, Marylanders should avoid exposure to cold weather, both by limiting time outside and by wearing several layers of lightweight, insulated clothing. Insulate toes, fingers, ears, cheeks, and the tip of the nose.

Marylanders in need of warming centers are encouraged to contact their local health department or to call 2-1-1 and provide their county location and ZIP code to get information about warming center locations, hours of operation, and available accommodations.   

Marylanders should use caution while using various heat sources to stay warm. Some heating sources can cause fires, electrical injuries, burns, or carbon monoxide poisoning if not installed, operated, and maintained properly. Check heat sources to ensure they are safe prior to use, install carbon monoxide detectors, and never use an oven as a heat source for the home.

More resources to help stay safe in cold weather—including cold-related illness surveillance reports, information about how to prevent cold-related illnesses, how to safely heat your home, and how to drive safely in winter weather—are available via the Office of Preparedness and Response’s Extreme Cold website.

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The Maryland Department of Health is dedicated to protecting and improving the health and safety of all Marylanders through disease prevention, access to care, quality management and community engagement. 

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