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Extreme Cold Weather Warning - January 4, 2017

Extreme Cold Weather Warning - January 4, 2017

Extreme Cold Weather Expected for Markham: Markham residents are asked to take extra precautions during extreme cold event.

Markham, ON — January 4th, 2017 — Environment Canada has issued an extreme cold weather warning for Markham and surrounding areas. Forecasts state there will be a period of very cold wind chill values of near minus 30 or below in the evening and overnight. The extreme cold weather warning will remain in effect from Thursday January 4th to Sunday morning January 7th.

Extreme cold warnings are issued when very cold temperatures or wind chill creates an elevated risk to health such as frostbite and hypothermia. Risks are greater for young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, people working or exercising outdoors, and those without proper shelter.

Residents are reminded to take extra precautions if venturing outside and are advised to check on vulnerable family and neighbours.

Remember to dress warmly. Dress in layers that you can remove if you get too warm. The outer layer should be wind resistant. Cover up. Frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin, especially with wind chill.

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Those who are more vulnerable to extreme cold weather are:

  • Seniors
  • Infants and children
  • People with pre-existing medical conditions
  • People who lack appropriate shelter
  • Newcomers to Canada
  • Outdoor workers
  • Sport and outdoor enthusiasts

The homeless, and those who are living in poorly insulated homes (without heat or power).

Winter Safety Tips

  • Call or visit vulnerable family, friends and neighbours, especially isolated seniors and ensure they have proper supplies to stay warm and dry
  • Keep pets indoors; animals are also at risk during cold weather. For pet information, please visit Ontario SPCA.
  • WInter driving has it's own challenges. An emergency car kit can help. Key items include a cell phone, towing company numbers, flashlight, blankets and sand bags, snacks, shovel and booster cables. For additional information about winter driving safety please visit Ottawa Police Service website.
  • Download Markham’s WInter Maintenance Mobile App; available for iOS, Android, and BlackBerry
  • Call Markham's Contact Centre for live updates during an emergency or severe weather conditions at 905-477-5530.

Appropriate clothing

  • Always wear clothing appropriate for the weather. Synthetic and wool fabrics provide better insulation
  • Remember that babies and young children need one more layer of clothing than an adult would wear
  • Dress in layers with a wind resistant outer layer
  • Wear warm socks, mittens, a hat and scarf and be sure to cover your nose
  • If you get wet, change into dry clothing as soon as possible. You lose heat faster when you're wet.

If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pets

When the temperature drops below freezing, pets should not be left outside for extended periods. Cats, short-coated dogs and puppies are particularly vulnerable in cold temperatures. Keep cats indoors and protect your dogs from frostbite or hypothermia by taking them outside for short periods during cold weather.

Never leave your cat or dog alone in a car during cold weather. Cars hold in the cold, acting like refrigerators, which could cause your dog to freeze to death.

For more information about pets and extreme cold weather go to the Ontario SPCA website. http://ontariospca.ca/cold-weather-safety.html

Avoid drinking alcohol

  • Alcohol increases blood flow, making you feel warm even though you are losing body heat.

Seek shelter or a local warming centre

  • Depending on the wind chill, exposed skin can freeze in minutes
  • Consider rescheduling or limiting time outdoors, especially if it is windy
  • Under the Community Investment Strategy (CIS), York Region provides funding to Inn From the Cold Emergency Winter Shelter and Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold Program
  • During the coldest months of the year, both provide emergency overnight shelter, clothing and meals to adults 18 years of age and over
  • For information about Inn From the Cold, visit innfromthecold.ca or call 905-895-8889
    For the Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold Program, call 416-948-6682
  • York Region also funds the York Region Street Outreach Van, operated by Loft/Crosslinks. The van is a mobile service that travels throughout York Region, providing assistance to homeless and at risk individuals. The van staff provides sleeping bags, warm clothes and referrals to shelter programs. The van operates seven days a week from 2 Pm to 9 PM. To schedule a meeting place and time with the Street Outreach Van, individuals can call 1-866-553-4053

For more information on extreme cold, visit york.ca/health.