February 13, 2020: Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Public Health is reminding residents to take precautions against cold weather. Environment Canada has issued an extreme cold warning for Thursday night for Dufferin and Wellington Counties. Surrounding areas will also see temperatures drop. An extreme cold warning is issued when the wind chill is expected to reach minus 30°C for at least two hours.
When the temperature drops, exposed skin can become frostbitten in minutes and in severe cases frostbite can result in amputation. Extreme cold can also be life threatening. Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can result in hypothermia. Hypothermia occurs when body temperature drops too low and can lead to organ failure and death.
Public Health recommends taking a number of important precautions in the winter to ensure you’re ready for sudden cold snaps. Most importantly, make a daily habit of checking the weather and planning accordingly. Limit your time outside when the temperature drops and cover exposed skin by dressing in layers with a wind-resistant and waterproof outer layer. Also, remember to maintain your home heating system and ensure it’s ready for the winter season!
Also, check in with family and neighbours, particularly those who might be on their own, when it’s very cold to make sure they are safe. For more information about extreme cold weather precautions visit www.wdgpublichealth.ca/cold.
Whenever temperatures are expected to be dangerously low, Environment Canada will issue an extreme cold weather warning for the region – so be on the lookout for these warnings, but even better, make a habit of always looking ahead at the forecast for the next few days.
Contact:
Chuck Ferguson, Communications Manager
1-800-265-7293 ext. 4374
chuck.ferguson@wdgpublichealth.ca