With wind chill temperatures below zero for much of New York, health officials are warning residents to be on guard for dangerous conditions.

And while everyone knows that winter is supposed to be cold, these type of temperatures can be a real shock to the system, especially for the elderly and children.

Here are some tips to help you make it through this brutally cold weather:

1. Officials warn that if you have to be outside for any prolonged period of time, be smart by dressing properly with layers and keep skin covered with hats, gloves and scarfs.

2. This kind of cold can lead to frostbite. Look for red and painful or pale skin, and stay alert for hypothermia with signs of intense shivering or dizziness.

3. If you use an electric space heater to stay warm at home, plug it directly into the wall, do not use an extension cords. Remember, improper use of portable heating equipment can lead to fire or dangerous levels of carbon monoxide.

4. You might want to open your faucets to a steady drip so pipes do not freeze. Experts say moving water can't freeze. So if you have the faucets and shower running it's less likely the pipes will freeze.

5. Doctors say this type of cold can really put a strain on your heart. People tend to only talk about that when it comes to shoveling snow, but it's just something to keep in mind if you are doing any strenuous activity outside over the next few days.