SIMCOE MUSKOKA — An extreme cold warning has been issued for Simcoe and Muskoka by Environment and Climate Change Canada for Monday, Jan 20 through to Wednesday, Jan. 22, with wind chill values near -30°C in Simcoe and near -35°C in Muskoka.

The Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit wants everyone to know that cold weather, even if it's not extremely cold, can be dangerous to your health. It can cause frostnip, frostbite, and hypothermia. Cold weather can also worsen health issues like heart or lung problems. People who are most at risk include those without secure housing, older adults, babies and kids, people with health problems, and those who work or play outside.

Fortunately, cold-related injuries are preventable. These simple steps can help you keep yourself, your family, and others in your care safe from extreme cold:  

• Check the weather and plan ahead: Know the weather before you go out and modify plans according to the conditions.
• Use the Environment Canada Weather Website or WeatherCAN app. Set up custom notification for cold weather on the WeatherCAN app.
• The Canadian Paediatric Society recommends keeping children indoors when temperatures or wind chill are reported to be -27°C (with or without wind chill) or colder.
• Be aware: Know the signs and symptoms of frostnip, frostbite and hypothermia. Monitor for signs and symptoms of cold injuries and know what to do if they occur. Be aware if you or those in your care are more susceptible to the cold.
• Dress for the weather: Dress in layers (an inner layer, middle layer and wind-resistant outer layer); wear a hat, gloves or mittens, a scarf, warm socks and waterproof boots. 
• Stay warm and dry: Seek shelter from the wind and cold and take regular breaks from the cold. If you get wet or sweaty, change into dry, warm clothes. Drink warm liquids (avoid alcohol and caffeine) to warm up.
• Check in on others: Check in on friends, family and neighbours to ensure they are warm and safe (indoors and outdoors) and have the supplies required to stay safe and warm.
• Travel safely: Avoid travelling on ice-covered roads or when visibility is poor. Have a winter emergency care kit with cable jumpers, extra blankets, and warm clothes in your vehicle. Never pour water on your windshield to remove ice or snow as this can cause windows to shatter.
• Maintain indoor temperatures: Keep indoor temperatures comfortable, between 18°C and 21°C.  Even moderate indoor and outdoor cold temperatures can have an impact on your health. Energy financial supports are available (e.g., Low-Income Energy Network).   

For relief from cold temperatures, visit warming spaces across Simcoe Muskoka. Warming spaces are buildings open to the public that welcome people inside during regular business hours to warm up from the cold. They are often located in municipal buildings, libraries, and community centres. Contact your local municipality to find an open warming space near you. Contact your local municipality or visit their website for hours and locations of warming spaces.

For more information about cold and its impact on your health, visit smdhu.org/cold.