A Cold Warning has been issued by the Halton Region Health Department starting Thursday, December 19, 2019. The Cold Warning is in effect until temperatures rise above -15 degrees Celsius (without wind-chill) or weather conditions improve and the risks involved with prolonged exposure are reduced.
Exposure to cold weather can increase your risk of cold-related injuries, including frostbite and hypothermia. These injuries can result in severe health consequences.
Anyone can be affected by extreme cold-related weather conditions, depending on length of time of exposure to cold and exertion levels. However higher risk groups include:
- Older adults (over the age of 65), infants and young children, outdoor workers, sport enthusiasts (hikers, skiers), homeless persons, and/or those lacking shelter, proper clothing or food.
Cold and winter weather safety tips:
- Cover exposed skin using multiple layers of loose-fitting clothes with a wind-resistant outer layer, a hat, mittens, and scarf.
- Always be on the lookout for signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
- Check in on family, friends and neighbours who may be at risk.
- Prepare for winter driving conditions by keeping a Car Survival Kit in your car at all times.
- Where pipes are close to exterior walls or basements or crawl spaces, ensure proper air circulation and adequate heat. Also, make sure your household temperature is not set too low when your house is vacant.
Additional information, weather forecasts and wind-chill information can also be obtained from the Environment Canada Weather Conditions and Forecast webpage. For further information and tips on how to protect your health during extreme cold and to sign up for Cold Warnings, please visit our Cold Warning webpage at halton.ca or call 311.
The Regional Municipality of Halton serves 580,000 residents in the City of Burlington, the Town of Halton Hills, the Town of Milton, and the Town of Oakville. Halton Region is committed to meeting the needs of its residents through the delivery of cost-effective, quality programs and services, including water and wastewater; Regional roads and planning; paramedic services; waste management; public health; social assistance; children’s and seniors’ services; housing services; heritage programs; emergency management and economic development. For more information, call 311 or visit Halton Region’s website at halton.ca.