An emergency warming centre is available at the Nawican Shelter in Dawson Creek until Feb. 27.
“This space is here to support those in need during the colder months,” the city of Dawson Creek wrote in their announcement of the activation.
The 24/7 centre will offer a reprise from the cold on 102 Avenue. It was activated ahead of this week’s return to wintery weather, with Environment Canada’s next seven-days showing temperatures as expected to hit anywhere from –15 C to –27 C, without including windchill.
When feeling a high-speed breeze alongside cold air, the body feels the effects of the cold faster. Warmth escapes the body quicker when hit by wind because it not only removes the body’s “thin layer of warm air around your skin,” but also dries the skin.
“When this layer evaporates, you lose heat faster and your body has to work harder to warm up a new layer of air,” explained Environment Canada.
“Strong winds make it easier to get cold injuries like frostbite and hypothermia. If the air temperature is –28 C with now wind, or if the wind chill is –28, the risk of frostbite is the same, but frostbite will occur faster with wind,” the agency explained.
To avoid frostbite, and other cold-related issues, the city is offering this space for people to warm up. Light refreshments will also be available at the centre, which is being re-activated for the first time since its three-day stint late last month.
