This paper, on the health hazards of cold weather for elderly persons, presents information from various sources on the death rates in winter throughout the United States. After reviewing the scope of the problem, specific health hazards associated with cold weather are discussed, i.e., hypothermia, fires, carbon monoxide poisoning, and influenza and pneumonia. An analysis of federal and nonfederal efforts to reduce excess mortality associated with cold weather is given. Following a brief summary of the findings, suggestions for reform are offered (e.g., better monitoring by safety and consumer agencies, a National Weather Service early warning system for cold weather, governmental energy response programs, and better immunization programs). The appendices include a cold weather guide for the elderly; 12 tables of statistics on national mortality due to cold weather, fire, influenza and pneumonia between 1962 and 1980, and home heating costs in 1983; city temperatures and deaths chart by age; and service disconnection and reconnection policies by state. (BL)