HUNTINGTON, W.

Saturday, December 23, 2000

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – As sub-zero wind chills and temperatures well below freezing blanket the area, the American Red Cross urges families to take precautions to help ensure safety during the holiday weekend.

When going outside, the Red Cross suggests wearing mittens rather than gloves because they provide more warmth.

And, because most heat is lost through the head, wear a hat, which will also cover your ears and protect them from freezing air.

Other tips include:

– Wear layers of clothing rather so that less body heat is lost and you can remove items when you get too warm.

– Wear waterproof insulated boots to help avoid frostbite or hypothermia, and to maintain footing in ice or snow.

– Get out of wet clothes immediately and warm the core body temperature with a blanket or warm fluids like hot cider and soup.

For more information, visit the Red Cross on the Internet at www.redcross.org or call the Red Cross in Huntington at 1-304-526-2900.