With Environment Canada forecasting temperatures as low as -16˚C and -18˚C with the wind chill, Southwestern Public Health (SWPH) is issuing a cold weather alert for its region.
The alert is for Saturday evening into Sunday morning.
During this alert, SWPH is asking residents to take precautions to protect themselves from the cold to avoid complications such as frostbite and hypothermia.
The alert adds “those most vulnerable to the effects of the cold include older adults, infants and young children, outdoor workers, those who like outdoor sports such as skiing and hiking, and homeless persons who do not have shelter, proper clothing or food.”
SWPH is also warning of potential hypothermia and frostbite for those outdoors.
The agency provided some tips for what residents should do:
- Stay indoors as much as possible
- Dress in warm layers when going outside (jacket, loose fitting clothes, toques, mittens, etc.)
- Cover up all exposed skin
- Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages as they cause your body to lose heat more rapidly
- Avoid strenuous exercise while …