What temperature should London warming centers be activated at?

Councillors are urging the city to activate warming centers at -5 C, a lower threshold than the current -15 C with a -20 C wind chill.

Why do councillors want to change the warming center threshold?

They believe the current activation temperature of -15 C with a -20 C wind chill leaves individuals experiencing homelessness exposed to dangerous cold and potential harm.

What are the challenges in expanding London's cold-weather services?

Budget limitations are a significant challenge for the city, as municipal resources are often stretched to cover gaps in funding for homelessness and cold-weather services.

Home / Health / London Council Debates Warmer Shelters Sooner

London Council Debates Warmer Shelters Sooner

26 Jan

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Summary

Councillors want warming centers activated at -5 C, not -15 C.
Current policy risks exposing homeless individuals to dangerous cold.
Budget constraints limit city's ability to expand cold-weather services.

London city councillors are urging the Community and Protective Services Committee to lower the activation temperature for warming centers. The current policy requires temperatures to drop to -15 C with a -20 C wind chill before additional indoor spaces are opened, a threshold many believe is too low and leaves individuals experiencing homelessness exposed to harmful cold.

Councillors cite a health unit report suggesting a -5 C activation temperature to mitigate cold-related injuries, which can occur at milder conditions. Despite this, city documents indicate the current framework was developed using local health evidence and operational considerations. Medical Officer of Health Dr. Alexander Summers emphasized that cold weather injuries can occur at any temperature, with repeated exposure increasing risk.

The debate also highlights significant budgetary constraints faced by the municipality. Councillors acknowledge that addressing homelessness and cold-weather risks requires multi-jurisdictional efforts, with limited municipal resources often stretched to fill gaps left by provincial and federal funding. Public sentiment, however, strongly supports opening warming centers sooner during cold weather.