Renfrew County and District Health Unit
“Optimal
Health for All in Renfrew County and District”
For Immediate Release
(Pembroke, Ontario, January 20,
2025)
Extreme Cold Warning Issued by
Environment Canada
Renfrew
County and District Health Unit reminds residents to take precautions as the
temperature drops. Environment Canada has issued an extreme cold warning for
the following areas:
Extreme
cold conditions are expected with windchill values near minus 35. Depending on
cloud cover, which may serve to moderate temperatures slightly, extreme cold
conditions may persist through Wednesday for some areas.
Very
cold temperatures can lead to serious health risks like windburn, frostbite,
and hypothermia. Frostbite can develop on exposed skin within minutes and can
happen to anyone.
People
most vulnerable to extreme cold include infants, older adults, people with
medical conditions affecting the heart or lungs, people taking certain
medications such as beta-blockers, people experiencing homelessness, people
living in a home without adequate electricity or heat, and people working outdoors.
If
you must be outdoors, reduce your risk and protect yourself from extreme cold
conditions:
• Dress in warm layers with a
wind resistant outer layer.
• Cover exposed skin when
outdoors. Use a scarf to cover and protect your face and nose.
• Keep moving, including your
hands and feet, to keep your blood flowing.
• Be aware of how your medical
conditions or medications may increase your risk.
• Avoid alcohol.
• Listen to the weather forecast,
plan ahead, and modify your plans to reduce your risk.
• Keep an emergency
car kit
in your vehicle when travelling.
• Be aware of signs
and symptoms
of frostbite and hypothermia.
If
shelter is needed, a Mesa warming centre is available 24 hours a day in
Pembroke at 156 John Street.
For
additional tips on how to stay safe during extreme cold events, visit Emergency
Preparedness | Renfrew County and District Health Unit (rcdhu.com)
and
Health
Canada: Extreme Cold.
To monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada, please visit Public
Weather Alerts.
-30-
Renfrew County and District Health Unit
Fax: 613-735-3067