Some suggestions for staying safe and warm this winter:

 

 

Dress to suit the weather

Thin layers of loose fitting clothing will trap body heat while aiding air circulation. Outer clothing should be hooded, tightly woven, and water repellent. Mittens are warmer than gloves. It is important to cover extremities to minimise body heat loss. If it is extremely cold, cover your mouth to protect your lungs from the cold air.

 

Watch for signs of hypothermia

This is particularly threatening to the very young and elderly. Feeling cold over a prolonged period of time can cause a drop in body temperature. Symptoms of hypothermia are shivering, confusion, and loss of muscular control. If symptoms occur, seek medical assistance immediately. Hypothermia can progress to a life threatening condition where shivering stops, the person loses consciousness and cardiac arrest can occur.

 

Cold and wind chill

During winter, pay particular attention to wind chill. Periods of high wind chill will boost home heating costs and reduce the effectiveness of automobile block heaters. Frostbite becomes an increasing threat to humans and animals. Wet skin or wet clothing in direct contact with skin increases the effective wind chill.

 

Winter power outages

Be ready for a power outage. Before winter, make sure you have extra batteries, flashlights and a portable radio.

 

Winterize your home and vehicle

Insulate your home to avoid cold air leaks and minimize heating costs. Prepare an emergency kit for your home and vehicle and ensure your home heating system is in good working order.

 

Pace your outdoor activity

Be alert for signs of frostbite. Avoid strenuous activity in extremely cold temperatures because the heart must work harder to pump blood through constricted vessels in arms and legs.

 

Shovelling

Be careful when shovelling. Even on their own, vigorous exercise and cold temperatures can cause high blood pressure and accelerated heart rates; in combination, they make those conditions even more likely. Take some precautions: take breaks, shovel with a buddy, warm up your muscles before you start, don't shovel right after you eat, and check with your doctor if you suffer from a particular condition.

 

Drive carefully

If possible, avoid driving if a winter storm warning or blizzard warning has been issued for your area of travel. Keep to main roads as much as possible and turn back or seek refuge if conditions deteriorate. It is also a good idea to fit your vehicle with winter tires for added traction on slippery surfaces.

 

Travel by daylight and with a companion if possible

When traveling alone, make sure someone knows which route you are taking, and your departure and expected arrival times. Be sure to notify them of your arrival to prevent an unnecessary search.

 

Information from www.getprepared.ca