Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued a Cold Weather Alert for London and Middlesex County.
The Middlesex-London Health Unit is reminding the public to take steps to stay warm:
- Stay in heated buildings as much as possible (your home, friend or family’s place, public buildings such as malls, libraries, etc.).
- Dress appropriately when going outside (multiple layers of loose-fitting clothes, toques, mittens, etc.) and cover up all exposed skin since, in extreme cold, frostbite can occur within minutes.
- Drink warm fluids but avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as they cause your body to lose heat more rapidly.
- Avoid strenuous exercise while out in the cold as much as possible.
- Know the weather forecast and avoid travelling when extreme weather is predicted.
- Prepare your home and car for winter.
Seek help if you experience any of the following symptoms of cold illness:
- Hypothermia: Symptoms/signs include shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling/uncoordinated movements, memory loss, slurred speech, drowsiness.
- Frostbite: Symptoms/signs include white/grayish skin area, skin that feels unusually firm or waxy, or numbness.
Warming Centres Hours and Locations
During a Cold Alert, libraries will be available as cooling centres during regular operating hours. For a list of all Middlesex County Libraries and their hours, please go to Middlesex County Library Locations.
Local Municipalities:
Local Municipalities within the County of Middlesex may identify warming and cooling centres available for the public. Visit your local municipal website for more information: https://www.middlesex.ca/municipalities
Community Navigators:
Community Navigators are available to offer support to you, or someone you may know, or suspect are living unsheltered or precariously housed in the Middlesex County community
- Community Navigators Contact Information:
Email: @email
Phone number: 519-434-7321 ext 4030
Community Supports:
For more information on supports and services offered in the community please go to www.middlesex.ca/humanservices
For more information on cold-related illness and warming centres, visit the Health Unit Website. For specific weather-related information, go to Environment Canada Website.