With extreme cold warnings or special weather alerts on the horizon, it’s a reminder from city officials to take extra caution when spending time outdoors.
The Cold Weather Response Plan will continue to be active for the duration of the COVID-19 municipal state of emergency.
“Exposure to cold weather can cause serious or life-threatening health problems,” says Kandace Belanger, who serves as the Manager of the Street Outreach and Harm Reduction Programs with the Thunder Bay District Health Unit. “People experiencing homelessness are especially at risk due to increased exposure. COVID-19 restrictions also mean there are fewer locations open to the public to warm up and escape the elements, putting folks at increased risks of cold-related injuries like wind burn, trench foot and frost nip, and in extreme cases frostbite and hypothermia.”
A warming centre at People Advocating for Change Through Empowerment (PACE) opened as part of the Plan back on January 15th. Thus far it’s providing a warm space for as many as 30 unique individuals a day.
“While individuals accessing area emergency shelters are not required to leave during the day, the numbers demonstrate that there are other individuals who are in need of this additional space to take refuge from the elements,” notes Georgina McKinnon, the Executive Director for PACE. “Individuals are coming in to get warm, have a coffee and snack, and some are even beginning to access the services of PACE who have not done so before.”
