Hastings and Prince Edward Counties/Friday, January 22, 2021 – Hastings Prince Edward Public Health (HPEPH) is issuing a cold weather alert to remind residents of Hastings and Prince Edward Counties to take precautions as the winter temperature drops. Cold temperatures can lead to health complications such as wind burn, frostbite and hypothermia.
A cold weather alert is issued when the temperature reaches -15°C without wind chill (WC). If the temperature continues to drop HPEPH will issue the following:
| Cold Weather Alert | Cold Weather Health Warning | Cold Weather Health Emergency |
| Temp: -15°C without WC | Temp: -25°C or lower OR WC: -28°C or colder (Env Canada) | Temp: -35 °C or lower OR WC: -55°C or colder OR Cold Weather Warning issued and contributing factors |
Cold weather can negatively affect health at even mild temperatures. The risk of health impacts goes up as temperatures get colder. While cold weather is a risk for everyone, not everyone is equally at risk. People who are at a higher risk include:
- People experiencing homelessness;
- People living in homes that are poorly insulated (with no heat or power);
- People who work or exercise outside;
- People with certain medical conditions and certain medications*;
- Infants (under 1 year); and
- Seniors (65 years or older).
(ABOVE IS A PRESS RELEASE FROM HASTINGS PRINCE EDWARD PUBLIC HEALTH)
