With temperatures to fall throughout the weekend, and into next week, it’s important for people to remember to stay safe in the cold.

Guthrie County Health Services Director Jotham Arber says that there are several illnesses and ailments that individuals can face with cold weather, including bronchitis, pneumonia, frostbite, hypothermia and thermal shock. He tells Raccoon Valley Radio that if anyone is experiencing any types of these illnesses, a common way to prevent them is to make sure that you are dressed properly when going outside. Arber mentions that heavy, thick garments can be helpful, but may not always be the best choice, explaining that several thinner layers may work better. He adds that this is because as the temperature changes throughout the day, individuals can take off or put on layers as needed.

Arber says that should someone begin suffering from a respiratory illness like bronchitis or pneumonia, it’s important to seek medical attention to be properly treated. He explains that for hypothermia, frostbite and thermal shock, it is a smart idea to limit time outside, especially in extremely cold conditions, and that medical attention may not be needed in the initial stages of the three, but that the more severe the case is the better it is to seek medical insight.