The West Region OPP is asking citizens to be extra careful during periods of extreme winter weather following a rash of deaths in which freezing temperatures appear to have been a contributing factor.
With a few more weeks of the coldest winter on record, police officials remind everyone to ensure they are dressed warmly while outside. That includes motorists, who often fail to pack warm clothing when traveling.
Hypothermia is a medical condition that happens when the body temperature falls below the normal temperature. It is a serious medical condition that can lead to death quickly when a person is exposed to the elements. Hypothermia can be further accelerated by the consumption of alcohol.
The OPP reminds anyone who is going to be outside during extremely cold weather to make sure they are appropriately dressed for the weather and to limit or refrain from the consumption of alcohol until they are in from the cold. Alcohol hinders a person’s ability to make sensible decisions, which can sometimes end in tragic consequence.
Environment Canada is predicting more frigid weather to come over the next week and police remind everyone to heed the warnings and be safe. The OPP is asking everyone to look out for others – especially vulnerable persons living in their communities.
