Winter Is Coming
Here’s some tips to help you get ready:
Prepare yourself
- Never leave home without a charged cell phone and letting someone know where you’re going and when you’ll be back
- Dress appropriately for winter adventures – bring extra gear, food and water
- Adventures are more fun (and safer) when you go with a friend
- Bring a head lamp in case your adventure lasts longer than planned
- ‘Walk like a penguin’ when you’re on icy surfaces to minimize falls
- Take lots of breaks and don’t overdo it when shoveling heavy snow.
Prepare your home
- Keep driveways and walkways clear of snow and ice (for your safety, and ours)
- Make sure outdoor lights are working and your home address is visible from the road
- If you have alternative heating sources, such as fireplaces, wood- or coal-burning stoves, or space heaters, be sure they are installed according to code, clean and in working order
- Make sure you keep an ample supply of prescribed medication at home in case a storm keeps you in for a few days
- Check in on neighbours with mobility challenges. Be a snow angel!
Prepare your vehicle
- Have your vehicle serviced and winterized before winter to decrease your chance of being stranded in cold weather
- Take the time to completely clear snow and ice from the windows/ windshield before you begin your trip
- Install good winter tires with adequate tread
- Keep an emergency supply kit and warm clothing in your vehicle at all times
- Keep the gas tank full.
Until next month, stay safe.
