RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Emergency room visits due to hypothermia and cold exposure are spiking across Virginia amid a snow and ice storm. On Saturday, Jan. 24, a winter storm hit much of the Commonwealth, bringing snow, sleet and freezing rain that quickly turned to ice. These icy conditions will l ikely linger for at least a few more days, as temperatures are expected to remain frigid. In a Jan. 26 Facebook post, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM) said that there has been an increase in visits to emergency departments statewide for hypothermia and cold exposure due to this severe wintry weather. "Due to the extreme cold temperatures and wind chill, hypothermia and frostbite are real concerns," VDEM said. MORE: Tips to avoid overexertion in winter weather from VDEM Here's a few tips to help you avoid cold-related illness: Focus on staying as warm and as dry as you can. Stay indoors if at all possible. If you have to go outside, limit your time out there. Make sure to dress appropriately, covering your head, fingers and toes. If your clothes do get wet, change out of them immediately. Stay hydrated, as dehydration can make you more susceptible to hypothermia. For more winter weather safety tips from VDEM, click here. ...read more read less