Frigid Arctic air will be sweeping into the Ottawa region on Friday, January 23 and Saturday, January 24. Dress warmly, in layers, covering any exposed skin before going outside and seek shelter indoors from the cold. Residents can find an interactive map of places to warm up online and are encouraged to monitor the weather by downloading the WeatherCAN app.
Supports for people at risk
Certain groups are more vulnerable to cold-weather injuries including: infants, children, older adults, people experiencing homelessness, and people who work outdoors. Service providers who work with these populations are encouraged to assess and adjust their programming and activities as necessary to help prevent cold-related injuries. There are many services available to help people experiencing homelessness:
- Emergency sleeping spaces in Ottawa shelters
- The Salvation Army’s 24/7 Outreach Van, which encourages people to come in from the cold, provides transportation to shelters, and distributes essential winter supplies
- Drop-in centres that offer supports such as showers, program activities, peer support, and housing supports
Call 3-1-1 to get referred to the best available shelter or to get assistance for someone who needs transportation to get out of the cold.
Call 2-1-1 anytime to find out how to access drop-in centres, community and health resource centres, food banks and community food programs, winter clothing, financial assistance with utilities and a list of Out of the Cold locations with free meals, snacks and drop-ins.
Call 9-1-1 for emergency medical assistance, such as for hypothermia.
More information is available at ottawa.ca.
