General News

Protect yourself during extreme cold weather

January 30, 2026   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

With recent frigid temperatures, the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit is offering tips on how to protect yourself from extreme cold.

While freezing temperatures and snow are a part of winter life, extreme cold can be dangerous to your health.

Environment and Climate Change Canada issues an extreme cold warning when temperatures or wind chills drop below thresholds for at least two hours within a 24-hour period.

These thresholds are -33°C for Simcoe County and -35°C for the District of Muskoka.

The Health Unit reminds everyone that exposure to extreme cold can cause frostnip, frostbite, and hypothermia. These conditions can be severe and even life-threatening.

Cold weather can also worsen existing health issues, such as heart and lung problems.

People who are most at risk include those without housing, older adults, babies and children, people with health problems, and those who work or spend long amounts of time outside.

Cold-related injuries can be prevented by following some simple steps:

• Check the weather before you go out and adjust your plans for the conditions.
• Learn about the signs and symptoms of frostnip, frostbite, and hypothermia, and what to do if they happen to you or someone in your care.
• Dress for the weather by wearing layers. Have an inner layer, a warm middle layer like a sweater, and a wind-resistant outer layer.
• Stay warm and dry. Change into dry warm clothes if you get wet or sweaty.
• Seek shelter from the wind and cold, and take regular breaks from the cold if you are outside.
• Check in on friends, family, and neighbours to ensure they are warm and safe.  
• Have a winter emergency kit with cable jumpers, extra blankets, and warm clothes in your vehicle.
• Keep indoor temperatures comfortable – between 18C and 21C.

Warming spaces are available throughout Simcoe Muskoka to provide relief from the cold. They are usually found in municipal buildings, libraries, and community centres and open to the public during regular business hours.  

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