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revised July 07, 2008
Cold Weather Guidelines

Homeless Shelters and Outreach Program

Peel Health recommends the following steps to be taken to prevent cold injuries:

General Recommendations
Region of Peel Shelter Operators:
  1. Please refer to your Shelter Operators Protocol during extreme temperatures and winter storms.

  2. Have an emergency kit available.

Region of Peel Outreach Team:
  1. If available, increase street patrols and mobile outreach when the temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or colder, with or without wind chill.

  2. Educate Outreach Staff on how to prevent, recognize and treat cold injuries. Some medical conditions may increase sensitivity to cold.

  1. Publicize services and agencies for the homeless through street patrols and mobile outreach. Provide bus tickets to homeless people trying to reach services/hostels as per current practice.

  2. Publicize Peel Street Helpline 1-877-848-8481 to help people find shelter and services.

  3. Monitor people who refuse to take shelter. If available, provide winter weight sleeping bags and clothing to persons living on the streets.

During a Cold Alert
Follow the General Guidelines AND
  • Give warm fluids and avoid caffeinated beverages to prevent dehydration
  • Remind clients to dress in layers of warm clothing
  • Provide bus tickets to homeless people trying to reach services/hostels
  • Check on people who refuse to take shelter
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Revised: July 07, 2008

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