Cold weather alert issued for Hamilton

Hamilton’s Medical Officer of Health has issued a cold weather alert for the city, effective early Tuesday morning.

A cold weather alert is issued when weather conditions are or anticipated to fall below minus 15 degrees Celsius or minus 20 degrees with the wind chill.

The cold weather alert will remain in effect until a cancellation notice is issued.

Hamilton health officials are reminding residents that exposure to cold weather can be harmful to your health. Wind always makes it feel colder, and increases the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.

The City of Hamilton has notified community agencies who work with vulnerable and homeless people to initiate their special protocol for cold weather.

If you see someone who is in need of shelter please contact the Salvation Army at 905-527-1444, ext. 0.

All city-run recreation centres are available during regular hours for those who need to keep warm and the MacNab Transit Terminal will stay open until HSR service ends.

If you must be outside, city officials make the following suggestions:

• Dress in layers of clothing. Keep inner layers dry. Wet clothing increases the risk of cold injury.
• Protect you face, ears and hands with a scarf, hat, and gloves
• To protect your feet, socks must be dry. Wool is a good material to keep your feet dry.
• Drink warm fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol
• Avoid strenuous exercise