Death of 86-year-old woman is the 9th cold-related fatality this winter

An 86-year-old woman has died of cold exposure, marking the ninth Cook County death related to cold temperatures so far this winter.

Irine Hyzny, who lived in Bridgeview, was pronounced dead Thursday at her home with a primary cause of death of "environmental cold exposure," according to the Cook County medical examiner's office. Her secondary cause of death was cardiovascular disease, according to the medical examiner.

Hyzny's death was considered accidental, as it was for the eight other people who have died since November at least partly because of the cold:

Chicago has faced bitter temperatures and several snow storms so far this season, and city officials from the Office of Emergency Management are disseminating information and tips for how to stay safe in the cold.

• Stay indoors as much as possible. Hang blankets over windows at night but let the sun shine in during the day. Cover cracks around doors with rugs, newspapers, towels or other material.
• If you have no heat, close off unneeded rooms and place towels or rags under the doors.
• If your water pipes freeze, shut off the water at the main source to minimize damage.
• When outside, avoid overexertion, such as shoveling heavy snow.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight warm clothing in several layers, and outer layers that are tightly woven, water repellent and hooded.