Winter Hazards

• Whenever temperatures drop dramatically below normal, staying warm and safe can become challenging… especially for those who may be new to the region and not used to changing weather.
• Winter weather conditions in Northern BC can quickly become dangerous with little or no warning.
• Frost bite is an injury caused by freezing of the skin and underlying tissues when exposed to cold temperatures.
• A normal body temperature is approximately 37ºC. When your core body temperature drops by 1 or 2ºC or your body is exposed to severe cold, your risk of harmful effects increases.

Taking Preventative Action

• Ensure to dress warmly when you go outside during cold weather.
• Wear layers of clothing with a wind-resistant outer layer.
• You can remove layers if you get too warm before you start sweating or add a layer if you get cold.
• Wear warm socks, gloves, hat and scarf.
• Please buy foot wear that’s best suited to ice and snow.
• In extremely cold conditions, cover as much exposed skin as possible.
• If you get wet, change into dry clothing right away; you lose heat faster when you are wet.
• Check the Environment and Climate Change Canada weather forecast before you go outside.

Watch for wind chill or extremely cold temperatures and stay indoors if you can. 

References

• Be prepared for winter (Environment Canada)
• Extreme Cold (Health Canada)

Have Questions?

Contact Safety & Security Services
E: safetyandsecurity@cnc.bc.ca