(Washington, DC) The District Department of Health urges those who plan to attend events associated with President Ford's state funeral to use caution during winter and nighttime conditions.

Viewing after Dark

• Though there will be street lights and lighting placed by authorities, you may experience areas of low light, so bring a flashlight so you can see where you are going.
• Bring your medication so a pm dose will not be missed; there could be long lines, and an extended wait time causing a delay in taking your medication.
• Wear light-colored clothing to increase your visibility by others.
• Reflective clothing is also a good defense against invisibility, but you need to be sure that the reflective areas are large enough and are exposed from every angle, which is very important when crossing the street. Visibility-enhancing clothes and accessories should be worn from an hour before sunset until an hour before sunrise.
• If taking public transportation, check a transit map for nearby subway stations (there could be more than one), and the bus schedule for times and stop sites.

• Do your feet a favor and wear a pair of shoes that fit well and are comfortable, allowing for long walks or long periods of standing. A good pair of socks is also important. Good socks should be padded around the toes and heel to cushion your feet from impact and to prevent irritation, sores and blistering.
• Layering clothing in respect to the weather is a good idea as well. Wool is a great material to wear to keep warm if it is cold outside. Wearing multiple thin layers is better than wearing just one heavier layer, like a sweatshirt. Layering traps warm air in each layer, keeping you warmer.
• A warm winter hat is important in cold weather. About 40 to 50% of your body heat can be lost through your head, so it’s important to keep it all in with a hat!
• Gloves and mittens are also important, especially for those with poor circulation. Mittens are a better option than gloves, since the fingers are closer together.
• An umbrella, rain coat/slicker, boots or waterproof foot coverings are important when going out into the rain to keep your body and feet dry. Keeping dry will help prevent hypothermia which can occur when the body is wet and unable to maintain optimal body temperature.