Preparing for emergencies during the cold weather season is very important to older persons. As you get older, your body becomes less able to respond to long exposure to the cold.

Seniors should be mindful that hypothermia can be fatal. Hypothermia is a condition of below-normal body temperature -- typically 95 degrees Fahrenheit or under. Hypothermia may occur in anyone who is exposed to severe cold without enough protection. Symptoms include a low temperature, sluggishness, slurred speech, slow breathing and confusion.

To avoid being the victim of hypothermia dress warmly even when indoors, eat enough food and stay as active as possible. Because hypothermia may start while you are sleeping, keep warm in bed by wearing enough clothing and using blankets.

Also neighbors and friends should check on each other and exchange emergency information that includes family members to contact, information about your primary doctor and other important information.

This winter, think smart and prepare yourself for cold weather, icy conditions and circumstances where going out might not be possible. Start storing canned foods and non-perishable items, keep bottled water and other items to sustain you until you can get out again. Make sure you include a non-electric can opener and those items that you can eat without warming in case of power loss.

Also during the cold season, don't wait to the last minute to refill prescriptions - fill them a week in advance just in case weather and icy conditions make it unsafe to venture out. During the snow season keep your shovel on a porch or inside so that it is easy to get to and you won't have to go down un-shoveled steps or an un-shoveled walkway to get to the shed or other place where shovels are often stored.

During extreme cold always keep your heat on so that pipes don't freeze up. A good temperature to keep your heat set on is 65 degrees or higher. These protective measures will help you endure the unbearable weather and keep you safe.

In case of a power outage, keep a battery operated lamp or flashlight in a safe place. Candles can be dangerous but if you must use them, remember to keep them secure and away from flammable objects. Do not leave burning candles unattended. Remember to keep additional, fresh batteries in case power is not restored right away. Check to see if your neighbors are also experiencing a power outage, if you are the only one, call PEPCO (refer to chart).