The frigid weather that arrived in London on Monday has brought with it the year's first cold weather alert.
The Middlesex London Health Unit has issued the alert because the temperature is expected to fall below -15C on Monday night. It's expected to remain in effect until Tuesday morning, when the temperature climbs above the -15C threshold.
“Our concern is for those who will be spending any length of time outdoors tonight; that includes our most vulnerable citizens who may not have adequate shelter and those who may be working or spending time outside,” says Randy Walker, Public Health Inspector with the Middlesex-London Health Unit. “When the outdoor temperature drops below -15C, there’s the risk of hypothermia and the danger that exposed skin could be damaged by frostbite. The best bet is to wear several layers of clothing as well as gloves and a hat.”
Health officials are also urging people to be aware of the symptoms of hypothermia, which can include pale skin, lethargy, confusion, and hallucinations. According to a release from the health unit, "Individuals may shiver a lot in the early stages of hypothermia, but shivering may decrease as body temperature continues to drop. In severe cases of hypothermia individuals lose consciousness, their breathing becomes shallow and their pulse becomes irregular and hard to detect."
It says anyone who experiences these symptoms should recieve immediate medical attention.
Agencies that help homeless people are being told to prepare for an increase in demand for their services. Members of the public who would like to help are asked to drop off donations of non-perishable foods, blankets, sleeping bags, and warm clothing to the following locations:
- Men’s Mission and Rehabilitation Centre, 459 York St.
- The Salvation Army Centre of Hope, 281 Wellington St.
- Unity Project, 717 Dundas St.