Cold alerts issued

Public health officials are encouraging everyone to try to stay indoors tonight because of those cold weather alerts issued in Hamilton and Halton but that may be difficult to do as many New Year’s celebrations are held outside.

Whether you’re outside in Niagara Falls or Toronto waiting for midnight, or down at Pier 8 in Hamilton this evening.

The first tip: bundle up. Dressing in layers of dry clothing with a hat, scarf and gloves is a must. Make sure your boots are dry as wet clothing can increase the risk of cold related health effects. Jordan Walker of Hamilton Public Health says it will be cold enough for a risk of frostbite. So it’s good to know some of the early warning signs.

Those are pale, numb or tingling skin which can progress to pain/burning. The skin may become white. If the pain stops it could be the frostbite has become severe. So in that case, try to gradually warm the skin with body heat and seek medical attention.

There is also a risk of hypothermia this evening. Walker talked to us about some of those signs: “With a loss of core body temperature you’re looking for signs and symptoms like shivering confusion exhaustion memory loss slurred speech. The problem with hypothermia is that because it effects the brain and an individuals thinking they may not realize it’s happening, particularly if they’ve been consuming alcohol. so it’s imporant for people going out tonight to keep an eye on friends and the individuals around them.”

That’s especially important to keep in mind if you’re drinking because alcohol can make it difficult to tell if you’re suffering from some of these symptoms. And if you are drinking, make sure you have a safe way to get home. In Hamilton, all bus trips are now free until the end of service. HSR says depending on the route that’s 1:30 or 2am.