Winter's a wonderland, but dangerous, too.

Winter’s a wonderland, but dangerous, too.

Mortality rates go up during the winter months. To stay healthy, stay warm and vaccinated — and install carbon monoxide detectors.

April may be a cruel month with its mix of memory and desire, but winter — it’s the deadliest of seasons. In most northern countries and in some of southern Europe, death rates peak this time of year. Heart attacks and other serious cardiac problems are more common in winter. There’s flu to contend with, too. Researchers tend to blame cold weather — yes, it really is bad to get a chill — and poor housing. But long nights and vitamin shortfalls may be a factor, too. The best advice is the same old: Dress warmly. Or get to a nice, warm beach sometime this month or next — wearing sunscreen, of course.

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