Health Unit issues cold advisory for the Parry Sound & Nipissing districts

North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit
News Release

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The Health Unit is issuing a cold advisory for the Parry Sound and Nipissing districts. A cold advisory is issued when Environment Canada forecasts winds of 15 km/hr. or more, with wind chill values at a temperature at or below – 40° C that last for three hours or more.

Serious health conditions can result from extreme cold. Those at highest risk are infants and the elderly, those who don’t have shelter, are stranded, live in a poorly insulated home or are without heat. However, anyone can be affected if they are exposed to cold for a long period of time.

Watch for frostbite and hypothermia if you are outdoors. Frostbite occurs when your skin and underlying tissues freeze. If you have frostbite, get medical help. Do not rub the affected area. Warm it slowly with body heat or warm water. Hypothermia happens when you have been exposed to extreme cold and your body temperature drops. You will start shivering, may become drowsy, and have slurred speech or confusion. Hypothermia is an emergency. Call 911 immediately.

For more tips on extreme cold, visit www.healthunit.biz.

Quote

“Everyone needs to be cautious when the wind chill drops below -40° C. Stay inside if possible, dress for the weather if you have to be outside, and check on your elderly friends and family.”
- Greg Rochon, Emergency Preparedness Manager

Tips to Stay Warm

 Stay indoors when extremely cold - exposed skin can freeze in minutes
 Listen to the weather forecast - understand wind chill
 Check on elderly relatives and neighbours often
 Dress for the weather with light, loose layers
 Cover your head, hands, feet and ears
 Stay dry
 Keep active
 Drink warm fluids - avoid alcohol and caffeine
 Limit time outside in extreme cold weather

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