Winnipeg, MB - The City of Winnipeg is inviting citizens to come in and warm up in civic facilities during regular operating hours as extremely cold temperatures continue.
City facilities that normally are open on weekdays and weekends are available as ‘warming areas’ where the public may come in for relief from the cold.
City facilities that can provide a comfortable place to warm-up include Winnipeg Public Libraries, swimming pools, and Leisure Centres. For regular operating hours of City facilities, please check Winnipeg.ca or contact 311, open 24 hours every day, by phone at 311 or by email at 311@winnipeg.ca.
If you are braving the cold outside, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Dress in layers of warm, dry clothing, so that you can adjust to changing conditions.
- Be sure to wear a warm hat that covers your ears and a pair of loose-fitting gloves or mitts: up to 40 per cent of our body heat is lost through the head and hands.
- Recognize the symptoms of hypothermia: confusion, dizziness, exhaustion and severe shivering. If these symptoms are present, seek immediate medical attention. Severe hypothermia can be life-threatening.
- Wear winter footwear with good treads, foot traction aids and/or ice picks on canes. Reschedule outings or appointments on days that are particularly slippery.
- Keep a winter storm survival kit in your car. This should include extra clothing, blankets, food, flares, chains, gloves and first aid supplies. Keep your gas tank full and to the extent possible, avoid traveling alone.
For more tips and information on staying safe during extreme cold weather, please visit the City of Winnipeg - Winter Safety.