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News Item

Cold Weather Safety Tips

November 22, 2018

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Extreme cold puts everyone at risk.  The risks are greater for young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, people working or exercising outdoors, and those without proper shelter.


  • dress warmly
    • dress in layers, the outer layer should be wind resistant
    • synthetic and wool fabrics provide as good insulating properties
  • cover up
    • frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin, especially with wind chill
      synthetic and wool fabrics provide as good insulating properties
    • watch for colour changes on fingers and toes, pain, numbness, a tingling sensation, or swelling
  • keep dry to stay warmer
  • keep moving to maintain your body heat and seek shelter from the wind
    • outdoor workers should take regularly scheduled breaks to warm up
  • if it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for your pet to stay outside
  • ask a health professional how medications or health conditions can affect your risk in the cold
    • a person with a heart condition should avoid strenuous activities like shovelling snow
  • check on older family, friends and neighbours
  • keep emergency supplies in your vehicle such as extra blankets and jumper cables
  • make sure your home is well-insulated, the heating system is working efficiently and seal off cracks and drafts