Ottawa - The Ottawa Public Health Department has issued a frostbite warning to ensure people take appropriate precautions before leaving home and to encourage people experiencing homelessness to seek indoor shelter from the cold.
 

This frostbite warning was issued after Environment and Climate Change Canada announced that a cold wave accompanied by winds will reach -35 degrees Celsius or colder for the Ottawa area.

The Canadian Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has issued an extreme cold warning for the city of Ottawa starting tonight, January 23, and continuing until Monday morning, January 24.

With cold winds, temperatures will reach -35 degrees Celsius or colder, where exposed skin can freeze in less than ten minutes.

There is also an increased risk of hypothermia for people who spend long periods outdoors without adequate protection.

Excessive exposure to this cold can lead to serious injury that may result in death.

Ottawa Public Health recommends wearing multiple layers of clothing to keep warm and ensuring the outer layer protects you from wind and moisture.

Ottawa Public Health explained that frostbite occurs when the skin and underlying tissues freeze, causing the skin to become white and waxy and difficult to touch.

Frostbite is a serious condition that may require amputation, so medical care is advised.

Frostnip is a mild form of frostbite where only the skin freezes, and both frostbite and frostnip can be treated by gradually warming the skin using body heat or warm water.

Ottawa Public Health recommends never rubbing or massaging affected areas if you get frostbite or frostnip.

Ottawa Public Health emphasized that infants, children, the elderly, and people with certain chronic illnesses such as poor circulation, heart disease, and people experiencing homelessness are particularly vulnerable to the dangers of cold weather.

Service providers for these populations are therefore encouraged to assess and adjust their programs as needed to help prevent cold-related injuries.

There are also many services available to help people get out of the cold, including those experiencing homelessness:

Emergency sleeping places in Ottawa shelters

Street outreach services to encourage homeless individuals to get out of the cold