Peel Health recommends the following steps to be taken to prevent cold injuries:
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General Recommendations
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- Prepare a plan to deal with potential
consequences of extreme temperatures and
winter storms (e.g. power outage, lack of
transportation). Have an emergency kit
available.
- Stay active, maintain good nutrition, and
get plenty of rest.
- Check on the elderly/persons with
disability or those with medical conditions
who live alone to ensure they are safe
(Some medical conditions may increase
sensitivity to the cold).
- Postpone outdoor activities or reduce the
amount of time spent outdoors when the
temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or
colder, with or without the wind chill.
- Keep children, the elderly and persons
with disabilities indoors when the
temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or
colder, with or without the wind chill.
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- Maintain a heated indoor environment in
the home or office (according to heat
by-laws, landlords MUST maintain the heat
at a minimum of 20 degrees Celsius
between the 15th of September of each
year, and the first of June of the following
year).
- Do not use an oven as a heating device.
Ensure space heaters are well maintained
and used properly to avoid fire risk.
- Drink warm fluids to prevent dehydration.
- Dress in layers of loose-fitting clothing,
covering exposed skin (socks, insulated
coats and boots-slip resistant/ waterproof,
mittens, hats and neck warmers).
- Change wet clothing or footwear
immediately.
- Take emergency equipment and a cell
phone when travelling and check the
weather forecast before going outside.
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During a Cold Alert
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Follow the General Guidelines AND
- Give warm fluids and avoid caffeinated beverages to prevent dehydration
- Remember to dress in layers of warm clothing
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- Keep children, the elderly and persons with disabilities indoors
- Regularly check on the elderly, especially those with disabilities
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