In Canada, more than 80 people die each year from over-exposure to the cold.

Ottawa is one of the coldest capitals in the world. Winter temperature paired with wind can cause severe injuries and even death. Frostbite injuries can lead to amputations. Hypothermia, the most serious of cold weather complications can lead to brain damage and then death. At -15 C, hypothermia becomes an increasing concern and when the wind chill reaches -35 or colder, exposed skin can freeze in as little as 10 minutes. Most susceptible to these cold weather problems are the elderly, children, infants, the homeless, newcomers to Canada, outdoor workers and sport enthusiasts. City of Ottawa would like to offer a few tips to prevent the cold weather in becoming a life-threatening event.

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Dress for the cold