Written By David Gomez, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
STRATHROY-CARADOC – With winter approaching, Strathroy-Caradoc council discussed -during its November 17 meeting- the region’s preparedness for cold weather and the responsibilities of municipalities and the county in supporting vulnerable residents. The discussion followed the release of the Middlesex-London Health Unit’s (MLHU) “Cold Weather Response and Health Impacts” report, which urged communities to act sooner to prevent cold-related injuries and deaths.
The MLHU report, published in August of this year, found that cold-related injuries remain a significant but preventable concern across Ontario. Between 2011 and 2023, more than 9,400 hospitalizations and 1,600 deaths were recorded nationwide due to exposure. The report recommends that municipalities implement seasonal responses, expand overnight shelter access between November and April, and consider triggering community action at –5°C, noting that many hypothermia cases occur at milder temperatures.
Mayor Colin Grantham opened the discussion by asking what role the county plays in local cold-weather response. “There’s always the feeling that it’s the municipality’s job to provide warming centres,” he said. “My question is, what is the county’s role? Does the county have a role to play in helping us, other than providing the library?”
Director of Community Services Rob Lilbourne clarified that the county is responsible for operating warming and cooling centres through its library branches, which function only during regular hours. “There’s no obligation that the municipality has to provide a warming centre,” he said. “When we close our facilities -no different than the library- we would be asking all people to exit.”
Councillor Sandi Hipple noted that the greatest need often arises overnight. “The coldest time of the day is at night when everything is closed,” she said, suggesting closer coordination with the county to find long-term solutions.
Council agreed that Strathroy, as the largest urban centre in Middlesex County, should lead in seeking collaboration. Mayor Grantham requested that the CAO contact the county to report back on options for overnight warming centres during declared cold emergencies.
