Peterborough Public Health has issued a frostbite alert for the evening of March 7 to the morning of March 8 for the City and County of Peterborough and Curve Lake and Hiawatha First Nations.
The fourth frostbite alert of the season was issued as temperatures with the windchill are expected to drop to -27 C on Thursday evening and continuing until Friday morning.
The Health unit advises residents in the area that exposed skin can freeze in as little as 10 to 13 minutes.
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Residents are advised to take the following precautions:
- check face and exposed skin for signs of frostbite
- consider re-scheduling outdoor recreational activities, especially during the evening as there is a serious risk of hypothermia and frostbite if outdoors for long periods
- use caution when shovelling snow especially for those that have heart, respiratory problems or other medical conditions
- check on the elderly or people with disabilities living alone
The health unit advises synthetic and wool fabrics provide good insulation on cold days.
Tips for staying warm:
- dress in layers with a wind resistant outer layer
- wear warm socks, gloves, a hat and scarf
- if you get wet, change into dry clothes as soon as possible
WATCH: Frostbite alert issued for City of Peterborough Area
Emergency shelters are open and available to people experiencing homelessness:
- YES Shelter for Youth and Families at 196 Brock St. (705-748-3851)
- Brock Mission Men’s Shelter at 120 Murray St. (705-748-4766)
- Cameron House Women’s Shelter at 739 Chemong Rd. (705-748-4766)
- Warming Room Overnight Shelter at 175 Murray St. (Daytime 705-868-9276; overnight 705-745-4376)
READ MORE: Homeless shelters are running at full capacity in Peterborough
Emergency after-hours services related to an emergency shelter are available through the city’s social services by calling 705-926-0096 or online.
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