The Medical Officer of Health (MOH) for Grand Erie Public Health has issued a Cold Notification for the Grand Erie Public Health region, which includes Brantford-Brant and Haldimand-Norfolk.
The notification was effective February 12, 2026.
A Cold Notification is issued by the MOH when part or all of the region is expected to experience temperatures below -15°C or wind chill values reaching -20°C.
Health officials warn that everyone is at risk during very cold weather.
When temperatures reach -15°C or lower, unprotected skin can freeze in less than 30 minutes, and the risk of hypothermia increases significantly.
Certain groups are particularly vulnerable to extreme cold, including older adults; infants and young children; individuals with chronic illnesses such as respiratory or heart conditions; people taking certain prescription medications; those experiencing homelessness; individuals who work or exercise outdoors; and residents living in poorly insulated homes or homes without adequate heating.
To prevent cold-related injuries such as frostbite and hypothermia, Grand Erie Public Health recommends:
- Wearing several layers of clothing, ensuring the outer layer protects against wind and moisture
- Covering exposed skin with hats, mittens, and face coverings
- Drinking warm, caffeine- and alcohol-free fluids to prevent dehydration
- Checking frequently on elderly and other vulnerable individuals to ensure they are safe and warm
Residents can visit Brantford.ca/ExtremeCold to learn more about the signs and symptoms of frostbite and hypothermia.
Emergency Shelter Information
Anyone in immediate need of emergency shelter is asked to contact SOAR Community Services Emergency Shelter Intake Services at 1-888-621-0034 or by email at housing@soarcs.com. Intake services are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, year-round.
In-person walk-in services are available:
- Daily from 8 a.m. to 12 a.m. (midnight) at 73 Murray Street, Brantford
- Daily from 12 a.m. (midnight) to 8 a.m. at 331 Dalhousie Street, Brantford
Several contracted service providers within the Homelessness Coordinated Access system have expanded capacity to provide warming spaces during the winter months:
- Rosewood House, 42 Nelson St., from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
- Salvation Army Booth Centre, 187 Dalhousie St., accommodating up to five men at a time during cold alerts only
- SOAR Community Services, 73 Murray St., offering temporary warming space daily from 8 a.m. to midnight, based on capacity
From November 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, the Blessing Centre at 7 Burnley Avenue is open daily from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., providing food and connections to homelessness services.
Officials encourage everyone to seek shelter during extreme cold conditions. More information is available at Brantford.ca/EmergencyShelters.
The Cold Notification will remain in effect until it is cancelled by the Medical Officer of Health.
