Northumberland County has extended operating hours at its overnight warming room in Cobourg as extreme cold conditions grip the region.
The County says the warming room, located in Committee Room A at Northumberland County Headquarters at 555 Courthouse Road, will open at 4 p.m. on Friday, January 23, and remain open continuously until 8 a.m. on Monday. The decision comes as Lakelands Public Health has issued a Cold Warning for Northumberland County, effective Saturday through Sunday.
Environment and public health officials are warning that the combination of low temperatures and wind chill significantly increases the risk of frostbite and hypothermia, particularly for people experiencing homelessness.
The warming room provides a safe indoor space with seating, rest areas, washrooms, and light refreshments. Northumberland County says the extended hours are intended to ensure uninterrupted access to warmth and basic supports throughout the coldest part of the weekend.
In addition to the County’s warming room, the Town of Cobourg has opened temporary respite locations in response to the Cold Warning. Residents are encouraged to check the Town of Cobourg’s website for hours and locations.
Individuals seeking overnight emergency shelter are advised to contact the shelter at 310 Division Street in Cobourg.
For assistance, residents can contact County security regarding concerns near the warming room, inquire about homelessness services through Northumberland County, or check shelter availability directly.
The County says it continues to monitor weather conditions and will adjust services as needed to protect community health and safety during extreme winter weather.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
