About the Extreme Weather Protocol

The Extreme Weather Protocol (EWP) is a community program involving shelter providers, faith groups, social service agencies, fire and police working together to increase the number of emergency shelter beds available during acute winter weather conditions of heavy wind, heavy rain, snow, and temperatures of −1°C or below. This initiative was first introduced after a severe cold snap in January 2004 when the City’s Silver Threads building was used as a short-term emergency shelter.

Under the program, during extreme weather conditions the shelter capacity expands from 305 up to 410 emergency beds and mats (capacity figures have since grown; see How It Works for current planning documents).

When extreme weather conditions are predicted and year-round shelter beds are full, participating organizations implement the Extreme Weather Protocol by opening additional shelters and moving to overflow beds.