PORT HOPE (January 22, 2025) — The Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge District Health Unit (HKPR District Health Unit) is advising that the Extreme Cold Warning issued on January 17, 2025 for the County of Haliburton, City of Kawartha Lakes and Northumberland County has been terminated effective today as a result of Environment Canada forecasting temperatures to rise out of the extreme cold level.

While the Extreme Cold Warning has ended, the HKPR District Health Unit emphasizes that cold-related illnesses are preventable, and it is most important to stay warm and avoid direct exposure during extreme cold conditions. Here are some steps you can take to prepare:

·        Dress in layers and wear appropriate outdoor clothing. This includes wearing a warm coat, winter pants and socks, gloves, a hat and scarf when you must be outdoors.

·        Prepare your home for the winter. Make sure your heating system works efficiently and seal all cracks and drafts near windows and doors to keep the heat in. Ensure you have any supplies required to maintain your primary heat source and consider adding a back-up generator or secondary heat source (if possible) to use during power outages.

·        Consider your own personal health risks. Talk to your health care provider about your personal risks to cold weather, and if you have health problems such as a heart condition you may want to avoid strenuous activities like shoveling snow.

·        Know the weather conditions. Check local weather forecasts and alerts so you can prepare for travel conditions and adjust outdoor plans when a special weather statement is issued.

·        Prepare an emergency kit for your home and vehicle. Ensure you have a 72-hour emergency kit in case of emergencies at home, but also create a winter kit for your vehicle that includes food, water, flashlight, extra clothing, a small shovel, and other essential items that you may need if you get stuck travelling during a winter storm.

When temperatures drop and extreme weather conditions occur, it is essential to be prepared for extreme cold conditions and winter storms to protect yourself and loved ones. Extreme cold can pose significant health risks, but with proper preparation and precautions, you can minimize the impact and safely enjoy the winter season.

For more information on how to prepare for the extreme cold and to protect your health this winter, please visit: hkpr.on.ca/Cold.

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