Dressing for Extreme Cold

Safety in cold weather comes down to layering and keeping bare skin covered. Follow these tips from NOAA:

• Wear a warm hat.
• Wear a face mask (also known as a balaclava) or wrap a scarf around your neck, chin, mouth, and nose.
• Wear at least three layers of shirts, such as a t-shirt, a sweatshirt, and a thick coat. The thick coat provides insulation.
• Wear an outer layer that keeps out the wind.
• Wear mittens or gloves.
• Wear two layers of regular pants, or one pair of pants lined with fur.
• Wear waterproof boots.

Food, Shelter, and Other Essentials

Coordinated Services Planning is a one-stop-shop for many resources, such as emergency food, shelter, clothing, healthcare, employment, and financial assistance. Fairfax County residents can call them at 703-222-0880 and they will connect you with the resources you need. The people who work at the call center speak many languages.