Cold spell descends on Westchester

Doctors in Cortlandt say the frigid weather that hit Westchester Wednesday could pose a health risk and advise residents to take precautions. Physicians say the best way to battle the bitter cold is

News 12 Staff

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Jan 15, 2009, 1:15 AM

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Updated 5,672 days ago

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Doctors in Cortlandt say the frigid weather that hit Westchester Wednesday could pose a health risk and advise residents to take precautions.

Physicians say the best way to battle the bitter cold is to layer up, but to do so with lightweight clothing. Doctors also say you shouldn't overexert yourself.

"When you sweat, it causes you to have chills and basically be more exposed to hypothermia," says James Chung, an emergency-department physician at Hudson Valley Hospital Center.

Warming centers can also be essential in protecting yourself against the cold.

"We don't turn away anyone regardless of their circumstances," says Diane Atkins, deputy director of the County's Department of Social Services.

The Mount Vernon YMCA is another warming center in the county and is open from 9 p.m. until 6 a.m.

"We have no problem housing anyone who wants to be housed. We encourage them to get out of the cold," Atkins says.

Cortlandt workers brave bitter cold

List of Warming Centers in Yonkers

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