First came the frost bite alert from City of Ottawa public health officials, now a warning from Environment Canada – it's about to get dangerously cold.
Forecasts show temperatures plummeting overnight to -23 C; it will feel more like -32 C with the wind chill. And Sunday forecasts a bone-chilling – 35 C with the wind chill.
Paramedics say bundle up, layer up, do whatever you must to stay warm.
"Prepare think about what you want to wear," says Ottawa paramedic Garth Tourangeau.
Tournageau says he expects paramedics to treat at least a dozen people for cold-related illnesses this weekend.
Ottawa's homeless are among the most vulnerable.
Shelter officials say no one should be left to sleep outdoors; they will try to accommodate as best they can even if it means putting people on the floor.
The Shepherds of Good Hope have been distributing hats, mittens, and socks to the homeless.
Public health officials say the body's extremities like toes, fingers, noses, and ears are the most vulnerable.
Keeping the skin moisturized with Vaseline or baby oil helps to create a barrier from the cold.
With a report from CTV's Kristy Kirkup
