Wind chill dangerous to young and old

KETTERING, Ohio (WDTN) - Parts of the Miami Valley were under a wind chill advisory early Friday.  Temperatures dipped into the single-digits early in the day, and wind chills ran well below zero.

Local pediatrician, Dr. David Roer talked about the combined effects wind and cold can have on both children and elderly people. 

"Children are smaller than adults," said Dr. Roer.  "Their body mass is smaller and their skin is more sensitive to the cold."

When the wind increases, heat is carried away from the body at an accelerated rate.  Experts said this is why wind chill drives down your body temperature. 

This can be dangerous for elderly people as well.

"Kids and the elderly are very similar in that hey have very thin skin," said Dr. Roer.  Elderly people tend to lose heat more easily and their circulation is not as good.  Therefore, they will get colder, quicker, especially in their extremities."

Dr. Roer said layers is the key to dressing properly for the cold weather.

"Socks, good boots, gloves and hats," said Dr. Roer.  "The areas on your body where skin is going to be most exposed; nose, toes, fingers, and ears."