As temperatures dip throughout Southwestern Ontario this week, the Windsor Essex County Well being Unit has issued a chilly climate warning for Monday and Tuesday.
The forecast from Surroundings Canada predicts a excessive of solely -12 C for Monday and -14 C for Tuesday. On Monday evening, the temperature may fall to -17 C with a windchill of -27 C.
Chilly warnings are issued each time the temperature hits -15 C with out the windchill.
Medical Officer of Well being Physician Mehdi Aloosh stated everyone seems to be in danger from the chilly, particularly older adults, infants, younger kids, those that work outdoors, folks with pre-existing situations, and people experiencing homelessness.
“Publicity to chilly climate can enhance the chance of cold-related accidents, together with hypothermia and frostbite,” stated a launch from the well being unit. “Frostbite happens when each the pores and skin and the underlying tissue are frozen. Hypothermia is when the physique loses warmth sooner than it could produce it.”
Signs of hypothermia embody shivering, confusion, and uncoordinated actions. Anybody with these signs ought to search medical consideration instantly.
To keep away from cold-related accidents, well being officers suggest dressing in layers with a hat, mittens, and scarf. Take away the outer layers or open your coat in case you begin sweating. Maintain shifting, particularly your arms and ft, and restrict how a lot time you spend outdoors. Additionally they recommend avoiding alcohol and ingesting heat fluids.
Lastly, name 911 in case you suspect somebody is affected by hypothermia.
Late final week, the Metropolis of Windsor issued a listing of companies internet hosting warming centres or emergency shelters for these experiencing homelessness.
Surroundings Canada expects the temperatures to begin to enhance by Wednesday.
