Be safe with these winter survival tips

PORTSMOUTH, Va. - Because of those chilly temperatures that just hit the region, doctors say it's time to dress for the weather for the sake of your health.

Doctor Paul Evans of the Riverside Medical Group says it's important to be prepared for these frigid temperatures.

"People lose heat in the cold and with wind that whole process is more rapid," says Evans.

Evans tells WAVY.com you should wear a down parka or a thicker material to protect yourself from the chilly air.

"Wool and those types of products are going to do a much better job of insulating than would, say, a cotton."

Is there a time when it's best to just stay inside? Evans says it depends on your age.

"The elderly and the very young are much more susceptible to cold injury. They are much less likely to be able to generate heat, so those people usually, when temperatures get below freezing, they probably should do as much as they can to stay inside."

Evans says now is the time to check on the elderly and those who can't heat their homes. He says a quick visit or call from you during these cold temperatures could save their lives.

Visit these Web sites with important winter weather survival advice:

-- Survival advice from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

-- Driving advice from the Virginia Department of Transportation