Tag: highlight

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is more than just a bump on the head. It’s an injury that affects how the brain works and can lead to short- or long-term health problems. 

TBIs may be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or by a penetrating injury to the head (such as from a gunshot). 

Some injuries are mild, like a concussion. Others are moderate or severe injuries that may require hospitalization, rehabilitation, and ongoing support. 

Common causes of TBIs include: 

• Firearms 

• Falls 

• Motor vehicle accidents 

• Being hit (sports injuries, assaults) 

Falls are especially important to highlight because they account for a large share of TBI-related hospitalizations. 

Traumatic Brain Injuries in Virginia 

In 2024, Virginia had almost 6,000 hospitalizations for TBI.  

 Older adults are more likely to be hospitalized and die from a TBI compared with other age groups. TBIs may also be missed or misdiagnosed in older adults because symptoms can overlap with other conditions that are more common with aging, including dementia. If an older adult falls—especially if they hit their head or are taking blood thinners—getting checked by a healthcare provider is a smart and often time-sensitive step. 

Concussion 

A concussion is a mild type of TBI that changes the way the brain normally works.  

A concussion is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. It can also be caused by a blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth.  

It’s important to know that a concussion can occur without a loss of consciousness. 

Some symptoms may appear right away, while others may not appear for hours or days after the injury. Symptoms generally improve over time. Most people with a concussion feel better within a couple of weeks. 

Common concussion symptoms can include: 

• Headache 

• Balance problems or dizziness   

• Nausea/Vomiting (especially early on) 

• Sensitivity to light or noise   

• Blurred vision or double vision   

• Feeling “dazed”, sluggish, foggy or groggy   

• Difficulty concentrating or remembering   

• Sleep changes (sleeping more/less, trouble falling asleep)   

• Mood changes (feeling irritable, sad, nervous or more emotional 

• Trouble thinking or concentrating 

• Will not stop crying and are inconsolable (children only) 

• Will not nurse or eat (children only) 

With proper care, most people can return to work, school, and other activities within a few days or weeks, but some people will have symptoms for months or longer. Follow-uping up with a healthcare provider is critical if symptoms linger. 

When to seek emergency care (Danger Signs) 

Call 911 or go to the emergency department right away if someone has a bump/blow/jolt to the head and then develops danger signs such as:  

• A headache that gets worse and does not go away 

• Repeated vomiting 

• Weakness, numbness, decreased coordination, seizures/convulsions 

• Slurred speech or unusual behavior (confusion, agitation, inability to recognize people/places) 

• One pupil larger than the other 

• Increasing drowsiness, inability to wake up, or loss of consciousness 

Small Actions Can Make a Big Difference 

 Everyday steps can help reduce the risk of brain injury: 

In vehicles 

• Wear a seat belt every trip and use the correct car seat/booster for children 

In sports and recreation 

• Wear a properly fitted helmet for biking and sports where helmets are recommended. 

• Follow safety rules and learn the signs and symptoms of concussion.  

Preventing falls—especially for older adults 

• Make the home safer (remove tripping hazards, add handrails/grab bars, improve lighting). 

• Stay physically active to maintain strength and balance. 

• Review medications with a provider (some can increase fall risk). 

• Keep vision prescriptions up to date. 

Learn More 

• VDH Traumatic Brain Injury site  

• Virginia Injury Violence Data 

• CDC Traumatic Brain Injury and Concussion site  

• CDC Heads Up to Brain Injury Awareness page  

• Brain Injury Association of America’s About Brain Injury page 

World HPV Awareness Day is a day to talk about the human papillomavirus (HPV).  It’s a time to clear up myths and remind people that many HPV-related cancers are preventable.  With the tools we have, preventing HPV-related cancer is possible, with awareness as the first step. 

About HPV 

HPV is spread through close and intimate skin-to-skin contact.  Roughly 85% of people will get an HPV infection in their lifetime. 

Most people who have HPV have no symptoms and are unaware they have it.  This is because HPV infections often clear up on their own. 

HPV and Cancer 

However, some HPV types can cause cancer. There are more than 200 types of HPV, with about 12 types being linked to cancer.  Each year in the United States, an estimated 36,500 men and women are diagnosed with a cancer caused by an HPV infection.  

Protection Against HPV 

The good news is that we have safe and effective tools to help prevent cancer caused by HPV.  

HPV Vaccine 

One of the best cancer prevention tools we have is the HPV vaccine. HPV vaccination could prevent more than 90% of HPV-related cancers from ever developing.   

The HPV vaccine works best when given well before exposure to the virus. 

• The HPV vaccine is recommended for routine vaccination at age 11 to 12 years of age. Vaccination can also start as early as 9 years of age.  

• The HPV vaccine produces the strongest immune response in preteens. 

• In Virginia, 3 out of 4 thirteen-year-olds are vaccinated with at least one dose of HPV. 

• People aged 26 years and younger who are not fully vaccinated are recommended to get the vaccine.   

• Some adults age 27 and older may choose to get vaccinated, in consultation with a healthcare provider.   

• The HPV vaccine is available for free through the Virginia Vaccines for Children (VVFC) program for eligible children ages 9-18 years old. 

Screening for HPV  

• Screening for HPV is another safe and effective tool for preventing HPV related cancer however it is not available for all cancers caused by HPV.  

• Women should start getting screened for cervical cancer at age 21. Screening can include HPV and/or Pap tests.   

• A healthcare provider can help determine which screening test is best and how often a woman should get screened.   

• Eligible women can get free screenings through the Every Woman’s Life Program. 

Research is still being done on HPV tests for other parts of the body. People with concerns about other HPV-related cancers should talk with a healthcare provider.  

Other Prevention Steps   

• Practice Safer Sex 

• • Limiting the number of sex partners and avoiding sexual activity with people who have had many other sex partners can help lower your risk of exposure to HPV.  

• • Use a barrier method (condom or dental dam) during sex. This can reduce (but not eliminate) the chance of HPV spreading.   

• If you smoke, stop or cut back if you can. Smoking exposure significantly increases cervical cancer risk.   

More Information  

• HPV – American Cancer Society 

• VDH HPV Vaccine Webpage 

• Every Woman’s Life Program   

What Is Colorectal Cancer? 

Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum. These two parts of the large intestine helps your body digest food and remove waste.  

Most colorectal cancers begin as small growths called polyps (small tissue). Polyps can slowly turn into cancer over many years if not found and removed. 

Rising Rates in Younger Adults 

Colorectal cancer is most common in older adults. In Virginia, it’s the fourth most common diagnosed cancer.  

However, rates are increasing in younger adults too. Rates of colorectal cancer in adults under 50 have been rising over the past 20 years. Studies show incidence rates increasing by around 2 to 3 percent per year in younger adults.  

Don’t Ignore the Signs and Symptoms 

In early stages, colorectal cancer often doesn’t have any symptoms. But as it grows, symptoms may include: 

• A change in bowel habits that last more than a few days. This can include diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool (poop). 

• Rectal bleeding with bright red blood. 

• Blood in the stool that might make the stool look dark brown or black. 

• Cramping or abdominal (belly) pain. 

• Weakness and fatigue. 

• Unintended weight loss. 

• A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that’s not relieved by having one. 

Reduce Your Risk with Healthy Habits 

There is no way to completely prevent cancer, but you can help reduce your risk by: 

• Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight 

• Eating a healthy diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains 

• Limiting the amount of red and processed meats you eat 

• Not smoking and limiting alcohol 

Catch It Early with Screening 

Screening tests can detect cancer early and often finds polyps before they turn into cancer.  Treatment works best when cancer is detected early. 

People at average risk should begin screening at age 45.  People with symptoms or who have a family history should talk to a healthcare provider about getting screened earlier. 

There are multiple screening options, the two most common include: 

• Stool tests you do at home every 1-3 years  

• Colonoscopy in a medical setting every 10 years 

Colorectal cancer can be serious, but paying attention to symptoms and getting screened can save lives.   

Learn More 

• Colorectal Cancer –  American Cancer Society 

• Colorectal Cancer – CDC 

• Cancer Action Coalition of Virginia 

February is Children’s Dental Health Month. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) wants to remind families and communities about the importance of teaching young children good dental habits. Healthy teeth help children eat, speak, learn, and feel confident. 

Tooth decay, also known as cavities, is most the common chronic disease of childhood in the United States. Luckily, it’s one of the easiest conditions to prevent.  

Healthy Habits = Healthy Smiles 

Parents, guardians, and caregivers can assist children develop healthy habits by: 

• Brushing their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. 

• Helping your child brush their teeth until they have good brushing skills using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.  

• Asking your child’s dentist to apply dental sealants when appropriate. Applying dental sealants to the back teeth prevents 80% of cavities.  

• Drinking fluoridated tap water when possible. 

Heathy Smiles for Everyone 

Communities also play an important role in increasing access to dental care. Some families face barriers like high costs, lack of insurance, transportation, or too few dentists in their community. Programs, like VDH’s Dental Health Program, can help by providing dental screenings, sealants, and community-based education to those facing barriers to care.  

Children’s Dental Health Month is a reminder that dental health matters for every child. By starting good dental habits early, we can make sure every child has a healthy smile that will last a lifetime.  

Learn More 

Learn more about oral health for children at www.vdh.virginia.gov/oral-health/ 

Cardiovascular disease and heart disease – many times these terms are used interchangeably, but they’re not the same.  

Cardiovascular Disease 

Cardiovascular disease is the term for ALL types of diseases that affect the heart (cardio) or blood vessels (vascular).  This can include: 

• Coronary artery disease: Problem with your heart’s blood vessels, like blockages.  

• Arrhythmia: Problem with your heart’s electrical conduction system. This can cause abnormal heart rates or rhythms. 

• Valve disease: Tightening or leaking in your heart valves. These are structures that allow blood to flow from one chamber to another chamber or blood vessel. 

• Heart failure: Problem with heart pumping and relaxing functions, leading to fluid buildup and shortness of breath. 

• Stroke: Problem with the blood vessels in the brain, including blockages and bleeding. 

• Peripheral artery disease: Issue with the blood vessels of your arms, legs or abdominal organs, such as narrowing or blockages. 

In Virginia, United States and worldwide, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death.  

Heart Disease 

Heart disease is a type of cardiovascular disease.  Heart disease refers to several conditions that affect the heart itself and how it works. The most common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease (CAD).  CAD affects the blood flow to the heart. Decreased blood flow can cause a heart attack. 

About 5% of Americans have been diagnosed with heart disease. Nearly 690,000 Americans die from heart disease each year, including almost16,500 Virginians. 

Common Symptoms of Cardiovascular Diseases 

• Symptoms of Heart Issues 

• • Chest pain 

• • Chest pressure, heaviness or discomfort 

• • Shortness of breath  

• • Dizziness or fainting 

• • Fatigue or exhaustion 

• Symptoms of blockages in blood vessels  

• • Pain or cramps in your legs when you walk 

• • Leg sores that aren’t healing 

• • Cool or red skin on your legs 

• • Swelling in your legs 

• • Numbness in your face or a limb 

• • Difficulty with talking, seeing or walking 

Protect Yourself from Cardiovascular Diseases 

• Have a healthy diet. 

• Be physically active. 

• Maintain a healthy weight.  

• Don’t smoke.  

• Limit alcohol use.  

• If you have high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes take steps recommended by your health care provider. You can keep it under control by taking medication and monitoring blood sugar and blood pressure.  

 

Learn more.  

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD) is observed on February 7 each year.  It exists to raise awareness about the impact of HIV on Black and African American communities.  It was first observed in 1999 and highlights the importance of decreasing stigma and increasing community involvement.  Improving access to HIV education, prevention, testing, and HIV care are focuses of NBHAAD, as well. 

Virginia data 

As is the case across the U.S., Black and African American communities are more impacted by HIV in Virginia.  In 2024, while Black/African American communities made up 19.12% of Virginia’s population, they accounted for 50.2% of new HIV diagnoses and 56% of people with HIV in Virginia that year.  The figure below shows the rate of new HIV diagnoses by race and ethnicity per 100,000 persons.  Using rates allows for the comparison across different population sizes.

You can find additional HIV, STD, and viral hepatitis data on our website. 

Causes 

According to KFF, several challenges may contribute to the epidemic among Black people.  These include experiences with: 

• Higher rates of poverty 

• Lack of access to health care 

• Higher rates of some sexually transmitted infections  

• Lower awareness of HIV status 

• Stigma and discrimination 

Combating Stigma 

How can you help combat stigma?  Talk openly about HIV to help normalize the subject.  This helps others learn about HIV and correct myths and misinformation.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a stigma language guide that can help with these talks. 

We can all help end HIV stigma through our words and actions in everyday life.  Be a role model for positive and supportive behavior.  Check out some scenarios from CDC to see how you can model positive behavior when you witness HIV stigma. 

Access testing and prevention services near you 

Free or low-cost HIV, STD, and viral hepatitis testing is available throughout Virginia.  VDH funds local health departments, clinics, and community organizations to offer testing services if you do not have a primary care provider.  To learn more about testing in Virginia or to find testing near you, visit our testing webpage. 

PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) for HIV is available as a pill taken daily, or a shot taken every other month or every six months.   PrEP prevents getting HIV through sexual contact about 99% of the time when taken as prescribed.  VDH provides funds to locations throughout the Commonwealth to offer HIV PrEP.   

Additionally, there are also post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) options to prevent HIV and STDs.  PEP for HIV involves taking a course of medications to prevent HIV infection.  It is critical that these medications are started within 72 hours of a potential exposure.  DoxyPEP involves taking the antibiotic doxycycline after unprotected sex to prevent getting a bacterial STD.  DoxyPEP is available at most local health departments. 

If you’re interested in PrEP or PEP, visit our PrEP and PEP webpage to learn more or find a PrEP clinic near you.  As noted above, nPEP is extremely time-sensitive, so please call your provider or our hotline if you believe you have been exposed to HIV and need PEP.  To learn more about DoxyPEP, read our DoxyPEP fact sheet. 

VDH’s response 

VDH’s Division of Disease Prevention has multiple programs that address HIV prevention and treatment.  This includes: 

• Funding, oversight, resources, or support to local health departments, community, and/or clinical organizations for: 

• HIV, STD, and viral hepatitis testing programs 

• Patient linkages and referrals 

• Education and outreach programs 

• Comprehensive harm reduction programs 

• Condom distribution 

• PrEP, PEP, and DoxyPEP distribution 

• Disease intervention services 

• Data collection and follow-up 

• Community planning groups 

• HIV care services 

• And more! 

Learn more about the services that VDH provides on our website.  If you want to become involved in any of our community groups, visit our Get Involved page. 

Reach out for support 

If you have any questions or need additional support, contact the Virginia Disease Prevention Hotline.  Hotline counselors are available weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.  It is closed on Virginia state holidays.   

The hotline number is (800) 533-4148 and is toll free.  

Hotline staff can help connect you to programs and needed resources throughout Virginia. 

February is National Cancer Prevention Month. This month is a great time to learn about the many ways to prevent or lower your risk for developing cancer.  

Cancer prevention starts with the choices you make every day. While not all risks are within our control, every step you take can help create a healthier future. 

Avoid Tobacco 

• Smoking is one of the most preventable causes of cancer. 

• Smoking and consuming tobacco products is linked to 20 different cancers.  

• Nearly 20% of all cancer cases and 30% of cancer-related deaths are caused by smoking cigarettes. This includes 80% to 90% of lung cancer deaths.   

Learn more about quitting tobacco.  

Eat Healthy and Stay Active 

About 19% of cancer cases are caused by a combination of excess body weight, alcohol consumption, poor nutrition, and physical inactivity.  

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and legumes. Limit refined sugar, red meat, and processed meat.  

• Limit alcohol consumption as it’s linked to multiple cancers. This includes breast, kidney, colon, lung, and liver cancers.  

• Stay physically active. Physical activity is protective against cancer. Experts recommend engaging in at least 30 minutes of some activity per day. This can include any form of exercise, such as walking, cycling, running, yoga, swimming, and strength training.   

Learn more about eating healthy and staying active.  

Protect Your Skin from the Sun 

Ultraviolet (UV) exposure, through the sun and tanning beds, is the main cause of skin cancer. It’s one of the most common cancers in the United States. 

• Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher.  

• Avoid using tanning beds. 

• Wear protective clothing, hats and sunglasses.   

• Stay in the shade when possible.  

Learn more about preventing skin cancer.  

Learn more about VDH’s collaboration with the Cancer Action Coalition in Virginia and the Virginia Recreation and Parks Society to provide Sun Safety Awareness information to schools, day camps, and other partners in Virginia. 

Stay Up to Date on Screenings 

Screening means checking your body for cancer before you have symptoms. Getting screening tests regularly may find certain cancers early, when treatment is likely to work best. If and when people should get screened are determined by sex, age, and risk factors. These screenings include: 

• Breast cancer 

• Cervical cancer 

• Colorectal (colon) cancer 

• Lung cancer 

See when you’re recommended to get these screenings. 

Some women in Virginia may be eligible for free breast and cervical cancer screening. 

Get Vaccinated 

HPV Vaccine 

• The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine prevents six different types of cancers. It’s best to be vaccinated before you are exposed to HPV.  

• The HPV vaccine is recommended for routine vaccination at age 11 or 12 years of age, well before people are exposed to HPV. HPV vaccination can also start as early as 9 years of age. 

• People aged 26 years and younger who are not fully vaccinated can get the HPV vaccine.  

• Some adults age 27 and older may choose to get vaccinated, in consultation with a healthcare provider.  

• Talk to a healthcare provider about this vaccine.  

Learn more about the HPV Vaccine.  

Hepatitis B Vaccine 

• The hepatitis B vaccine is considered the world’s first anti-cancer vaccine.  

• Worldwide, chronic hepatitis (hepatitis B and hepatitis C) causes at least 80% of all liver cancers. 

• Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent hepatitis B infection and is recommended for: 

• All infants 

• All children and adolescents younger than 19 who have not been vaccinated 

• Adults 19-59 who have not been vaccinated 

• Adults 60 and older with risk factors for hepatitis B or who wish to be vaccinated 

• The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians recommend all infants get a birth dose of the hepatitis B vaccine. 

• The Virginia Perinatal Hepatitis B Prevention Program works with local health departments, hospitals, and healthcare providers to prevent the spread of hepatitis B from mother to baby. 

• Talk to a healthcare provider about this vaccine. 

Learn more about Virginia’s Perinatal Hepatitis B Prevention Program 

CDC: Hepatitis B vaccine  

American Academy of Pediatrics  

 For more information: 

• VDH information and local resources for cancer 

• Virginia Cancer Registry 

• Virginia Cancer Data 

• Virginia Comprehensive Cancer Control Program 

• Cancer Action Coalition of Virginia 

Cervical cancer is cancer of the cells in the cervix.  Each year, about 13,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer, and about 4,000 people die from it.  

Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by human papillomavirus, commonly known as HPV. 

About HPV 

There are more than 100 types of HPV. Roughly a dozen are known to lead to cancer. HPV infections cause most cervical cancers. 

HPV is spread from person to person through skin-to-skin contact. Most people will get HPV at some point in their lives, but do not know it.  This is because the body is often able to fight off the infection.  However, if your body can’t fight the infection, it can cause the cells of your cervix to change into cancerous cells. 

Protection against HPV and cervical cancer begins before you are exposed to it.  

Prevention 

Get Vaccinated 

Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers because of the HPV vaccine. The HPV vaccine protects against HPV types that cause 90% of all cervical cancer. It also protects against other cancers. 

• The HPV vaccine works best before exposure to the virus.  

• The HPV vaccine is recommended for routine vaccination at age 11 or 12 years of age  well before people are exposed to HPV. Vaccination can also start as early as 9 years of age. 

• People aged 26 years and younger who are not fully vaccinated can get the vaccine.  

• Some adults age 27 and older may choose to get vaccinated, in consultation with a healthcare provider.  

• In Virginia, 3 out of 4 thirteen year olds are vaccinated with at least one dose of HPV. 

• The HPV vaccine is available for free through the Virginia Vaccines for Children (VVFC) program for eligible children ages 9-18. 

Get Screened  

• Women should start getting screened for cervical cancer at age 21. Screening can include HPV and/or Pap tests.  

• A healthcare provider can help women determine which screening test is best and how often they should get screened.  

• Uninsured and eligible women can get free screenings through the Every Woman’s Life Program. 

Practice Healthier Habits 

• Use a barrier method (condom or dental dam) during sex. This can reduce (but not eliminate) the chance of HPV spreading.  

• If you smoke, stop or cut back if you can. People with a high-risk type of HPV and who smoke are more likely to get cervical cancer. 

More Information 

• Every Woman’s Life Program  

• Cervical Cancer | American Cancer Society 

• Cervical Cancer Awareness | CDC 

• VDH HPV vaccine webpage 

On Maternal Health Awareness Day, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is shedding light on the importance of maternal health and the work that’s been done to improve maternal health outcomes in Virginia. 

What is Maternal Health? 

Maternal health refers to the health and well-being of women during pregnancy, childbirth, and after childbirth (postpartum). It includes physical, emotional, and mental health. 

Maternal health includes access to: 

• Quality prenatal care 

• Safe delivery services 

• Postpartum support  

• Prevention and management of health conditions that can affect pregnancy outcomes 

When people can access quality maternal health resources it can help:  

• Reduce the risk of complications 

• Support healthy babies and mothers 

• Ensure mothers have the support they need before, during, and after pregnancy 

Maternal Health in Virginia 

Maternal mortality (death) rates in Virginia have been going down since their peak in 2021. Yet, some populations are affected more than others.  

Maternal Health Disparities 

In 2023, Virginia’s maternal mortality rates for Black women were more than double compared to non-Hispanic White women.  Additionally, people of color have lower rates of adequate prenatal care and may be less likely to receive services such as important health screenings and appropriate monitoring of baby’s growth.  

 In 2023 in Virginia:  

• 11.9 % of Hispanic women had late or no prenatal care 

• 9.4% American Indian or Alaska Native women had late or no prenatal care 

• 5.8% of Black or African American women had late or no prenatal care 

• 4.5% of Asian or Pacific Islander woman had late or no prenatal care 

• 3.8 % White women had late or no prenatal care 

Access to Care 

In Virginia, rural and underserved communities continue to face limited access to care: 

• According to March of Dimes, 31% of counties are defined as maternity care deserts. These are areas that lack adequate maternity care resources, such as birthing hospitals and obstetric providers.  

• Women in maternity deserts travel over three times farther than those with full access.  

• 15% of women had no birthing hospital within 30 minutes.

Severe winter weather, including snow, ice and extremely cold temperatures, is expected throughout much of Virginia this weekend. On January 22, Governor Spanberger declared a State of Emergency due to winter weather. 

Check out this important message from State Health Commissioner Dr. Cameron Webb, who provides safety and preparedness tips ahead of the winter storm.

Now is the time to prepare! Before the storm hits, take these steps to prepare you and your family: 

• Check and restock your emergency kit with food, and water, blankets, flashlights and batteries. 

• Ensure you have an emergency kit for your vehicle(s). 

• Organize and protect your prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, home-use medical devices, and vitamins. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about how you can create an emergency supply of medicines. 

• Winterize your home by insulating exposed pipes and caulking and weather-stripping doors/windows. 

• Check batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.  

• Replenish fuel for your car and heating sources. 

• Charge all phones, computers and radios. 

• Make sure you understand the warnings, watches and advisories and have multiple ways to receive alerts. 

Follow these tips to protect you and your family during and after the storm. 

• Bring your pets indoors and ensure they have water. 

• Stay indoors and limit your exposure to the cold. 

• Properly ventilate emergency heat sources. 

• Use space heaters safely. Keep heat sources at least three feet away from drapes, furniture, bedding, or other flammable materials. Never cover your space heater. 

• Keep generators outside at least 20 feet from your home. 

• Check on neighbors and family. 

If you must go outside, please take these precautions to stay safe and prevent frostbite and hypothermia: 

• Be aware of wind chill factor. Dress warmly and in layers. Make sure you cover your head, fingers and toes. 

• Wear proper footwear for traction. Take slow, short steps. 

• Avoid getting wet. If you get wet, change out of wet clothes as soon as possible. 

• Stay hydrated. Drink warm beverages. 

• Take frequent breaks if shoveling snow or working outdoors. 

• Stay off the roads. If you must travel, use 511.vdot.virginia.gov to check the road conditions along your route first. Allow extra time and follow these tips from the Virginia Department of Transportation. 

Prepare now with these steps to stay safe and warm for this storm and throughout the winter. For additional tips and answers to frequently asked questions, please visit our response page.