In response to the forecasted extreme cold warnings, the Town of Cobourg will open a Warming Centre for those who are vulnerable and those seeking relief from the cold temperatures beginning Friday, January 14, 2022.
The Cobourg Community Centre is located at 750 D’Arcy Street.
This Warming Centre will provide a warm indoor place to seek relief from the extreme cold access washroom facilities and will remain operate from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. beginning Friday, January 14, 2022. The centre will also provide approximately 1,420 square feet of space to provide proper physical distancing, chairs, and couches for those escaping the harsh weather.
Warming Centres are generally activated when the local Medical Officer of Health issues an Extreme Cold Weather Alert (ECWA) based on a forecast from Environment and Climate Change Canada of -15 degrees Celsius or colder, or when the wind chill is forecast to reach -20 degrees Celsius or colder, for the proceeding 24 hours or longer.
“Because of the extreme cold weather moving in, it’s necessary for us to be able to open a place where people can get out of the cold and get warm,” said Shannon Murphy, Emergency Planner for the Town of Cobourg.
When the forecast called for the extreme cold weather on the weekend, the Emergency Control Group held a meeting and decided on a plan to help in the frigid conditions.
Extreme cold warnings and wind chill creates an elevated risk to health such as frost bite and hypothermia. Risks are greater for young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, people working or exercising outdoors, and those without proper shelter. Residents are advised to call 911 if an individual is in distress or requires immediate assistance.
All public health protocols regarding COVID-19 will be followed to ensure the safety of all those accessing the centre, including physical distancing, mandatory use of masks, hand washing, no food or beverages, conducting symptom screening and monitoring and enhanced cleaning procedures.
Murphy said that with the Cobourg Community Centre being a bit north of Highway 401, Century Transportation is graciously donating their services to help.
For anyone that needs a ride to the Warming Centre call Century Transportation at 905.373.0582
House of operation are
Saturday – 8:15 a.m. to 6:45 p.m.
Sunday 8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
