The state Health Department sent out a round of tips on what to wear and what to eat if you're planning to attend tomorrow's Barack Obama speech in downtown Baltimore. Our own Frank Roylance compiled some similar information for today's paper, but the tips bear repeating:

Use the Layering Principle

* Base Layer: Wear fabrics that keep your skin dry and prevent a clammy feeling.

* Insulating Layer: Wear a vest or shirt made of fleece or wool. This may be added or removed depending on how cold you feel.

* Windproof and Water-Resistant Outer Layer: Wear a jacket, preferably with a hood, to help protect you from the elements.

* Briefs: Wear briefs made of synthetic fabric, preferably nylon or polyester. Cotton or cotton-blend fabrics should be avoided since they hold moisture and do not dry quickly.

* Tights or Thermals: Wear tights, winter-weight hose or thermals when temperatures are below 30 degrees Fahrenheit or when it is windy. Silk or polypropylene long thermal bottoms are best. Tights or hose can also help prevent chafing and chapped skin on the thighs and calves.

Hands

* Gloves or Mittens: Keep your hands warm for cold weather comfort and protection. Mittens are warmer than gloves. If you keep your fingers together, they warm each other.

Socks and Shoes

* Hiking Socks: Protect your feet from the elements when you are walking in cold weather. Wear a hiking sock offering a wicking polypropylene liner sock under a wool over sock. Be careful that you don't wear a sock so padded and bulky that it crowds your toes in your shoes.

* Hiking Boots or Trail Shoes: Wear light hiking boots or trail running shoes that are waterproof. Be sure the shoes have a flexible sole.

Protect Your Eyes, Lips, Skin, Neck and Face

* Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from sun glare.

* Sunscreen: Wear sunscreen. Keep in mind winter's sun radiation is more intense.

* Lip balm: Prevent chapped lips. Balms with sun protection are even better in the outdoors.

* Hats, Hoods and Scarfs: Protect your head, neck and ears leaving only your face exposed. A scarf can be pulled up to cover your nose.

Signs of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness are signs of hypothermia. Babies with hypothermia have bright red, cold skin, and very low energy. Seek immediate medical attention for if you experience any of these conditions.

For more information on public health and emergency preparedness for the inauguration, click on *Inauguration Tips* at http://dhmh.state.md.us.

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Health Officials Offer Food Tips for Residents Attending Inauguration Activities

BALTIMORE, MD (January 16, 2009) Many residents are preparing to attend the upcoming inaugural events, and due to expected large crowds and long lines, some may plan to bring food. The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene recommends the following examples of small, pocket-size packs of simple, easy to carry, healthy and non-perishable food items:

* Dried Fruit - Dried Apples, Raisins, Cranberries, Apricots, Peaches, Blueberries or others

* Nuts - Almonds, Brazil Peanuts, Cashews, Macadamia, Pistachios, Pecans, Soy and Walnuts

* Seeds - Shelled pumpkin and sunflower seeds.

* Food Bars - Energy and granola bars

* Crackers - Plain and flavored

* Cereal/Granola - Breakfast-type cereals and trail mix,

* Cookies - Graham Crackers, Oatmeal , Gingersnaps

* Chips - Pretzels, Bagel chips, Baked Chips, Pita chips, Air-popped Popcorn

For more information on public health and emergency preparedness for the inauguration, click on *Inauguration Tips* at:

http://dhmh.state.md.us