At least three people in Fairfax County have died this week in the aftermath of Winter Storm Fern and the extreme cold continuing to grip the D.C. region.
The Fairfax County Police Department says its officers have responded to “several” CPR calls for people experiencing heart troubles in recent days, including three cases where the person died.
Following the previously reported death of a Kings Park West resident in his 70s, who collapsed on Sunday (Jan. 25) while shoveling snow, a 50-year-old man in Springfield and an 89-year-old woman in the Mosby area of West Falls Church died after being found outside yesterday (Wednesday) morning.
“As our region continues to experience extremely cold temperatures, lingering ice, and hazardous conditions following a historic winter storm, the Fairfax County Police Department is reminding residents to take extra precautions,” the FCPD said in a news release. “Severe winter weather can pose serious risks, especially for older adults and those who are more vulnerable.”
Officers responded around 5:34 a.m. yesterday for a possible CPR call after someone reported that a friend who lived in a tent in the 5700 block of Backlick Road in Springfield might be dead. Scanner traffic suggests the person lived in a known homeless encampment near the Backlick Road train station.
The 50-year-old man was transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased, the FCPD said.
Separately, officers were dispatched to the 6600 block of School Lane near the James Lee Community Center shortly before 7:30 a.m. for a cardiac arrest. A 89-year-old woman had been found in the backyard of her home, apparently deceased.
The woman was taken to a hospital, where she was confirmed to have died.
“These incidents serve as a stark reminder of how dangerous winter conditions can be,” the FCPD said.
From late Saturday night through Sunday, Winter Storm Fern delivered between 5.5 and 8.5 inches of snow and sleet across Fairfax County, closing schools, delaying trash collections and other public services, and limiting travel throughout the region.
A cold streak that’s currently forecast to last through this weekend has hampered clean-up efforts, turning snow and ice into compact mounds that have proven difficult to move. Another Cold Weather Advisory will take effect tonight at 7 p.m. and remain in place until 11 a.m. tomorrow (Friday), predicting wind chills as low as 9 degrees.
“Frostbite and hypothermia will occur if unprotected skin is exposed to these temperatures,” the National Weather Service said.
According to the NWS, an Arctic blast moving south is expected to drop temperatures in the Mid-Atlantic to record daily lows, and another “major winter storm” could begin tomorrow, though it’s likely to miss the D.C. area. Chances of snow in Fairfax County this weekend are only 30%.
Fairfax County’s Hypothermia Prevention Program is underway, and county staff are encouraging community members to call the police department’s non-emergency line at 703-691-2131 if they see someone who might be at risk of hypothermia.
If someone needs immediate help, the FCPD advises calling 911.
The county also has an Aging, Disability & Caregiver Resources Line at 703-324-7948 that can refer older residents and caregivers to services such as wellness checks, in-home support, meals, and transportation.
“Those needing help with heating, food, or other urgent needs can contact Coordinated Services Planning at 703-222-0880 (TTY 711),” the FCPD said. “Family members, caregivers, and neighbors are encouraged to regularly check on older adults, especially those living alone or without reliable heat.”
More tips on dealing with the cold weather from the police department:
- Take frequent breaks when shoveling snow or clearing ice. Overexertion in cold weather can be dangerous, especially for older adults or those with underlying health conditions.
- Whenever possible, clear snow and ice during the warmest part of the day, when sunlight can help soften ice and reduce strain.
- Stay hydrated, even in cold weather, and dress in warm, layered clothing.
- Avoid rushing. Slips, falls, and cardiac emergencies are more likely when conditions are icy and tasks feel urgent.
- Check on elderly neighbors, family members, and others who may be more vulnerable to cold weather. A quick phone call or knock on the door can make a difference.
- If you know someone experiencing housing insecurity, encourage them to seek warming centers or assistance when temperatures drop to dangerous levels.
- Keep walkways, steps, and entrances as clear as possible, and use salt or sand for traction.
