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Environment Canada issues extreme cold warning

With windchill values between -40 and -45 C on the way, Environment Canada has issued an extreme cold warning for Greater Sudbury and vicinity.
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The Homelessness Network of Sudbury has announced that an extreme cold weather alert will be in effect for the next 24 hours. File photo.
With windchill values between -40 and -45 C on the way, Environment Canada has issued an extreme cold warning for Greater Sudbury and vicinity.

Extreme cold warnings are issued when very cold temperatures or wind chill creates an elevated risk to health such as frost bite and hypothermia.

“An Arctic ridge of high pressure sliding southward through the Prairies continues to usher in moderate north winds and frigid temperatures over Ontario,” said the statement, issued by Environment Canada at around 11 a.m. Feb. 12.

“As a result all of northern Ontario will experience extreme cold today, tonight and into Saturday morning.

“While anyone who isn't dressed warmly is at risk in cold weather conditions, some are at greater risk than others for frost bite and hypothermia: homeless people, outdoor workers, people living in homes that are poorly insulated (with no heat or no power), people with certain medical conditions such as diabetes, peripheral neuropathy and diseases affecting the blood vessels, people taking certain medications including beta-blockers, winter sport enthusiasts, people who consume excess alcohol, infants and seniors.”

Environment Canada issued the following tips:

-Wear appropriate clothing.
- Always wear clothing appropriate for the weather. Synthetic and wool fabrics provide better insulation. Some synthetic fabrics are designed to keep perspiration away from your body which keep you dry and further reduce your risk.
- Dress in layers with a wind resistant outer layer. You can remove layers if you get too warm (before you start sweating) or add a layer if you get cold.
- Wear warm socks, gloves, a hat and scarf in cold weather. Be sure to cover your nose to protect it.
- If you get wet, change into dry clothing as soon as possible. You lose heat faster when you're wet.

The Homelessness Network of Sudbury has also announced an Extreme Cold Weather Alert for the next 24 hours.

The program is funded by Greater Sudbury to protect those who are most vulnerable to intensely cold weather conditions.

“This Alert will put into action a short-term emergency plan to increase community services when the temperature drops below -15 degrees C or when Environment Canada issues a storm watch or weather warning,” the network said in a release.

“Please be advised that a new trigger has been added as of Nov. 1, 2012, in which a daily low of -20 degrees C with a windchill will also warrant that an Extreme Cold Weather Alert be issued.”

People on the street are encouraged to access shelters and services. Individuals who may be at risk due to low temperatures in their homes are also eligible for these services.

Under a community partnership agreement, agencies will implement or extend the following community services:

Hot Line: 675-6422: L’Association des jeunes de la rue will operate an overnight phone line to direct callers to appropriate services and to take calls from concerned citizens.

Shelters: Emergency shelter programs for homeless persons are available 24 hours through Salvation Army men’s shelter, Cedar Place for women and children and l’Association des jeunes de le rue for youth. 

Emergency Warming Centre: The Elgin Street Mission will become an emergency warming centre and extend their regular hours of operation by remaining open 24 hours during an Extreme Cold Weather Alert. As part of its emergency response, they will also provide a hot meal at night.

Out of the Cold Shelter Program: The Out of the Cold Shelter Program (OOCS) that started as a pilot project in late 2013 continues into the 2015-2016 winter season. The OOCS provides temporary cots and a warm, safe place to sleep for persons who are under the influence or otherwise disconnected from mainstream shelter services. The shelter, located at 200 Larch St., will run from 8 p.m. until 7 a.m. every night until April 15.

Outreach: L’Association des jeunes de la rue (Community Outreach Program) will provide overnight services to make contact with people on the street and to transport individuals to shelters. Outreach workers will be equipped with extra clothing, blankets and coffee for those who choose not to access shelters.

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